Have yourself a very stress-free Christmas

Ok, here’s a radical thought – Christmas is as stressful as you, let it become.

Going with the flow and accepting the flaws is crucial to overcoming Christmas stress.

Very often you can overload your plate (and I’m not talking food) by simply taking on too much. The key is too weed out the less important festivities, and remember to keep perspective on the situations you find yourself in...

1. Get logical about Christmas anxieties
Figure out exactly what you’re stressed about at Christmas, and deal with it. For example, if you’re worried about money, then do a gift exchange or make inexpensive, easy homemade gifts. If you’re worried about your diet and exercise levels, schedule time to exercise or go on a diet before Xmas to give yourself that holiday ‘buffer’ weight zone. It’s important to not let your stress levels get out of proportion. Identify your anxieties and work towards practical solutions.

2. Ask for help
Parents (especially mums) often take on more than they are ever asked to do. If the ‘making a rod for your own back’ phrase applies to you, then start by making a list of the things only you can do, and write a separate list of the things you can delegate to family/friends. A Christmas martyr is usually not much fun to be around and if you’re thinking ‘well, they won’t do it as well as me’ ask yourself ‘well, so what. Is it really the end of the world?’ Holiday stress is easier to overcome when you don’t feel like you’re in it alone.

3. Be realistic about your expectations
The family will argue and some presents will disappoint- guaranteed. It’s inevitable that some troubles will arise during the holiday season. Going with the flow and accepting the flaws is crucial to overcoming Christmas stress. A great way to measure if something is truly important is to ask yourself ‘will this matter a year from now?’ If the answer is no, then try your best to let it go, there and then.

Finally, try to think of at least three things you can do to treat yourself, no matter how small, it's your Christmas too after all. Happy holidays, see you in the New Year...

If you’d like more information on how a personal coaching session can help improve any area of your life, and really boost your focus then check our website for more details:
www.coachmehappy.info or www.thehappymum.co.uk or call Jude personally for a free 10 minute coaching consultation on: 07827 666 009.