De-Stress this Holiday Season: Tips to avoid the overwhelm

Alongside the joy and celebration of the Holiday Season, can also be stress. From gift shopping to family gatherings, there is a lot to manage. Here are some tips to help you embrace the spirit of the holidays without feeling overwhelmed. You can de-stress this holiday season.

1. Plan Ahead

One of the best ways to reduce holiday stress is to plan ahead. Instead of creating lists of everything you need to do, consider breaking down each big thing into small manageable tasks. (Ie: for "Christmas Dinner," break it down into: choose menu, gather recipes, write down cooking order for the day, grocery trip). Now write each of these tasks on your calendar. This will help you prevent last-minute rushes.

2. Set a Budget

Financial stress can be a significant source of anxiety during the holidays. Set a realistic budget for your holiday spending, that doesn't include credit card spending you cannot afford. Include gifts, decorations, food, and any travel expenses. By sticking to your budget, you can enjoy the season without the burden of debt hanging over your head.

3. Simplify Gift Giving (and avoid clutter)

Want to avoid adding more clutter to your home? Consider:

• Opting for homemade gifts or experiences (concert tickets, perhaps) instead of physical items.

• Suggesting a gift exchange, such as Secret Santa, to reduce the number of gifts you need to buy.

4. Simplify Gift Wrapping

These ideas can make gift wrapping seem like less of a chore:

• set up a wrapping station where you can have supplies at-the-ready. I use my laundry folding table this time of year. (If you don't have a location available, then pack all the fixin's into a long portable bin you can slide under a bed and use as needed.)

• Wrap gifts right away when the packages arrive at the door.

• Bonus: Instead of wrapping, you can toss the items into gift bags and twist tissue to put on top - done! Last year, I don't think I actually "wrapped" one single gift because the bags worked so well.

5. Take Care of Yourself, too

Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as:

• Sleeping - every night - 8 hours if you can

• Engaging in physical activity, like walking or excercise class.

• Reading a book or enjoying a favorite hobby.

And it's okay to ask for help, delegate tasks to others, rather than trying to do it all yourself. You’ll be better equipped to handle the demands of the season and be present for the people you love.

6. Compare Yourself to No-One

You don't have to prepare the most lavish meals or turn your home into a museum. If thoughts of measuring up to what you see others doing causes stress:

• Take a breath and give yourself grace.

• Understand that what you see on Instagram or Pinterest is only someone else's highlight reel - literally! Don't compare you insides to their outsides.

• Choose to spend time on things that make you happy and generous toward others, not things that bring out your own personal Scrooge.

7. Create New Traditions

If your current holiday traditions feel overwhelming, consider creating new ones that are more manageable. This could mean simplifying meals, reducing the number of decorations, or changing how much you travel to visit with family and friends. The key is to foster an environment that feels joyful and relaxed rather than stressful. Our family has pot pie on Christmas Day because I can make it ahead (with pre-made pie crusts and rotisserie chicken) and we all love it!

8. Declutter

Now is the best time to donate old toys the kids don't play with anymore, Holiday Decor you didn't use this year, clothes that don't fit, and kitchen gadgets you don't use. This month, I'm trying to spend a few minutes each day going through small areas or categories in my house to get things out! You can get the kids involved and have them fill gift bags for donations. By decluttering now, you will be making space ahead of time for all the new surprises you may receive soon. Just make sure to load those donations into the car and drop them off ASAP!

You Can De-stress this Holiday Season!

The holiday season should be a time of joy and connection, not stress and anxiety. By planning ahead, setting realistic expectations, and prioritizing self-care, you can create a less stressful holiday experience. Embrace the spirit of the season by focusing on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones and creating lasting memories.

You can learn more about how Sort and Sensibility Organizing helps people de-stress at home by going to www.sortandsensibility.com. Or you can contact me directly by emailing me at contact@sortandsensibility.com, or calling/texting me at 864-280-9454.

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas this year,

Dianne