How to avoid stress during the holidays
By Erlin M. Due
Christmas is drawing nearer and all of us seem to be too busy despite having enough time as the holidays in the Philippines start in September. Stress brought about by the coming holidays is getting on our nerves and we feel that we are so tired and exhausted already. I know you know what I mean.
The pandemic has changed our lifestyles since the government and the Department of Health discouraged people from having face-to-face Christmas parties.
Still, for many families, stress and the holidays go hand-in-hand. And many of the holiday stressors are linked to money, time, and pressures brought about by the holiday season such as setting a small party and preparing for Christmas Eve in our family bubbles; thinking of all the people you want to give gifts to; and the parties and invitations for reunions.
Add to this the preparation of the costume you will be wearing.
These are things that just make you go crazy and exhausted!
Because of your busy schedule, you’ve forgotten that the Christmas vacation had also already ended and realize you did not get any rest but rather only stressed yourself out.
I hope this list can help you navigate through the stress during the holidays this year.
- You Can’t Please Everyone
Every family has to make choices about where to spend the holidays. This can get really complicated when couples first get married and again when they have children. You have to compromise and be mature enough once the decision is made.
I suggest you alternate which family you’re going to spend your Holidays with every year. I tell you couples still argue about this. It will ruin your holidays.
Every family has traditions and trying to mesh everyone’s schedules to find something that works for everyone can be difficult. Remember that even when you do your best, you can’t please everyone. So, do what makes you feel happy and don’t live through expectations.
Seeing family is important during the holiday season. Whether you celebrate a week earlier or a week later, it will still be special.
Celebrations don’t have to occur on the exact day to be meaningful and memorable.
Getting together is what matters!
- Keep a Calendar to your Schedules
Make sure to keep on top of events and special occasions when adding these to your calendar. There are lots of applications on your smart phone with a calendar or a “to-do” list you can carry to remind you. Set your priorities.
- Make a List of Things You Love and Want to Do
Prioritize your family. I know we need our work but family is most important. You can always manage schedules with friends.
Taking time to bake holiday cookies, taking family photos, or service opportunities can be scheduled. You can always search for home service since beauty salons are full now.
4. It Doesn’t Have to be Homemade
Make your own holiday traditions. Don’t do something because it is expected. Do things your way. The way that is best for you and your family.
If you don’t have time, buy them. I remember the days when we cooked “kalamay”. The process really needs and takes time and effort. Now, you can always buy at Susie’s or in the market. But if your family loves to do this, just do it. It’s fun!
Setting your Lucky 13 Fruits before New Year? You can always buy these in sets at SM. I remember my legs ached just to complete the fruits. Or you can buy three sets of fruits your children love to eat instead of completing them and just waste them after the holidays.
Holidays are meant to be fun. Don’t stress over something that can be fixed with less than Php100. I am pretty sure you want to spend your energy wisely to enjoy the holidays than getting sick.
5. Wrap Gifts in Bags
Wrapping gifts can take a long time if you have a large family. Start a tradition of wrapping most of your gifts in bags.
If you keep the bags after the children unwrap, you are able to use the same bags year after year.
Not only does it save lots of time, but also money. And it’s environment-friendly as well! You can always recycle paper bags by just printing a colorful name tag to make it look nice.
Since I’m suggesting this, don’t be surprised when the LV paper bag you receive contains a desk calendar!
Remember: it is the thought that counts.
- Keep Track of Your Spending
We Filipinos overspend during the Holidays. We always see ourselves as the Santa Claus in the family. There is nothing wrong with giving gifts. But remember: to make them happy and cry about your credit card bills after the holidays is a no, no!
Change our mindset. I learned this from experience. I received my 13th month pay and it just vanished in thin air.
Separate your savings; buy assets not liabilities. It is ok to buy something for yourself but make sure it is practical.
In order to stay in the budget, make sure that you keep track of who you buy for and what you have already bought. Check your inventory and plan ahead of the menu you are going to cook. Making a list will keep you on track and planning is very significant. There are a lot people who are hungry and I know it is not your fault but think about it.
I know it is nice to post your delicious food on Facebook but I hope this is enough for your family and not just for show. We are still in a pandemic. Plan an exact meal. I suggest sharing some to the needy would be a great deed this Christmas.
Of course, family members, friends, including your kids’ teachers, and anyone else we give a Christmas gift to are on the list. Be creative and make sure they will enjoy and use your gifts.
Try this: get a big box and put all the gifts you find on sale throughout the year so you don’t have to rush during Christmas.
Do not be stressed about finding the perfect gift. If you have someone who is notoriously hard to buy for each year, do one of two things: either ask them for a wish list or give them a gift card with a small treat.
Do not stress over gifts. Shop early and get done early.
And remember, most kids would be happy playing with a cardboard box. Your kids don’t need the latest and greatest toys. The best gift you can give your child is quality time together.
I hope these tips will help you avoid stress during the holidays this year. Many times we let the pressures of the season take hold of us.
Make the holidays simple and meaningful with your family to avoid too much stress.
Don’t forget to thank God and invite your family to attend Mass. Most people forget or have forgotten about this most important Christmas tradition.
Remember the joy of Christmas and let it inspire you to slow down this holiday season and enjoy this time with your family.
Happy CHRISTmas!
