3 Surefire Ways to Beat Holiday Stress

It's here. The time of year when families come together, bicker with each other and then con each other out of their hard earned money - all in the name of "holiday" - Bah, humbug! No, seriously - this is a very beautiful time of year yet it can be a stressful time for many us - even under the best of circumstances. This season of excitement and memories is for you too, so make certain you allow room for yourself by getting some R & R. Schedule time to relax, reflect and rejoice!

Set Reasonable Expectations

There will be more than enough invitations coming your way, however as my Mom often says, "you don't have to be on everybody's set." That is another way to saying, "it's o.k. to say NO!"

You have to be realistic about what can and cannot be done - if it doesn't fit, don't force it. Remember, you want good holiday memories as well. If you need a quick break for yourself, then make it happen - no guilt required!

Simplify Your Life

For parties and gatherings you've chosen to attend, make it enjoyable and keep it simple! You don't have to stay the entire evening and you don't have to spend a lot of money on gifts. It's easier than we think: a beautifully scented candle, foot bath and a loofah, a $10 gift card to their favorite coffee house or electronics store - all nicely packaged in a pretty gift bag and simple ribbon says as much (if not more than) the expensive and corny scarf and gloves set from our favorite store. The point is, to give gifts that really matter. Think about what simple act or thing puts a smile on your face when you need it most? Oftentimes, whatever it is is really quite simple and costs very little. Use the same rule here.

Take Time to Reflect and Be Grateful

Time spent with loved ones is not going to mirror the sappy commercials we're brainwashed with, so get that picture out of your mind. It goes like this, the doorbell rings and the magical music starts playing. Inside everyone gathers closely with smiles and tears and well-behaved children all wait with bated breath as the long lost relative on the other side has no idea a big holiday shindig is waiting for him or her. The Christmas Tree is flawlessly decorated, the dinner table set with turkey, hen, roast and a chicken all on time, all with smiles. Okay, snap out of it. For many of us, that isn't reality, but have no fear, we have a family, imperfect, but lovable and laughable just the same! So, remember it's not going to be perfect, but it is still to be embraced and by the way, it's vacation time, so act like it!

After helping Mom in the kitchen, go out on your own, be a tourist in your hometown - reflect, and be grateful for all your blessings and then exhale - isn't it wonderful?!

Give yourself permission to enjoy this season and your loved ones. Relax, Reflect & Rejoice then mediate on this:

"A loser seldom lives in the present, but instead destroys the present by focusing on past memories or future expectations." - Muriel James