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There’s no doubt that Christmas can be the most stressful time of the year. If you feel this way here is a plan to make it less demanding.
At the beginning of the month, or preferably in November make a list of every thing you have to do. Divide the list up so that you will get three fourths of it done in the first two weeks of December. Make sure you buy all of your gifts at this time, since finding the presents can be the most stressful part of Christmas. That way you can enjoy the rest of the month with only a few things left to do.
When shopping for Christmas gifts keep a list and as soon as you have bought each person something cross their name off. To simplify things buy all of your coworkers the same thing, and give all the families on your list a family gift. If you want to, include in the family gift a small present for each of the children. Often times it doesn’t matter what the gift is as long as each child gets something.
If you normally make dinner each night, prepare meals that take fifteen minutes or less each night for the whole month. This will give you more time for the many holiday related things you have to do. If you have to prepare a fancy Christmas dinner you can spend the extra time you normally spend making regular dinners to focus on that.
Another way to give yourself more time at Christmas is to forgo sending cards. It can take hours to write little messages in each card, then label and mail them. If you can’t bear to not send any cards write one letter on the computer and send it to everyone. You can even use software to print out a Christmas card with your message already inside.
If you find yourself with a very long list of things to do, take an honest look at your traditions. Which ones have the kids outgrown? Does your family really need six desserts and homemade cookies? Can you skip all of the homemade gifts that take three times as long to make as going out and earning the money to buy the same thing? Some things are nice, but if they cause you more stress and take away from the season forget them.
And last but not least, remember why we celebrate this season. Attend a church nativity, sing the songs and feel the peace. When you are focused on the real meaning of Christmas you won’t be so stressed by the commercialism of it all. Recall the many good times you have had with your family. Sit around the tree and talk. Tell your children about Christmases when you were a kid, because that’s what Christmas is about, remembering the joyful times. Nobody will remember what they got for Christmas each year, but they will remember the fun and the family stories. Have fun and Merry Christmas.
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