Christmas is typically one of the most stressful times of the year.  The expense of buying gifts combined with the pressure of last minute shopping and heightened family expectations can be enough to send anyone over the edge!  So if you’d like to know how to stay calm and get the most out of your Christmas keep reading...

Santa’s Stress Reduction Strategies

        

Finances and relationships are the two key areas that typically cause the most stress at Christmas.  Here are our top tips on how to handle them:-

Finances

For many people the Christmas aftermath includes massive credit card bills that can take months, if not longer, to clear.  With the current economic climate this isn’t the time to over-commit yourself, which is one of the biggest sources of stress over the festive period and new year.  Moderation is key and saying ‘no’ is a very underutilised strategy! 

Be clear on your how much disposable income you have to spend on Christmas and keep to your budget.  Consider Kris Kringle to take the pressure off and set limits on the cost of presents.  You can still have fun and enjoy Christmas this way - and you’ll be pleased you reigned yourself in when the new year arrives and your bills are smaller!

Relationships

Stress, depression and anxiety are all common during the festive period so if nothing else, recognise that these feelings are normal. 

If you bicker all year long with certain family members this isn’t likely to change just because it’s xmas so don’t expect miracles!  To minimise tension reduce alcohol intake as this is a prime cause of upset and practice simple goodwill gestures to keep the tension down.  Remember - what you focus on is what you get, so if you’re expecting rows or awkward conversations that’s exactly what you’ll find.  Choose your focus wisely to create the Christmas you really want.

Finally, it’s important to make sure you look after your own health and well-being over the silly season.  Some other ways to keep your stress levels down are:-

1. •Everything in moderation - I know, I know, it sounds boring but too much food and booze is harmful so practice a little bit of self-control and your body will thank you for it!
   

2. •Get some sleep - tiredness decreases our tolerance and ability to cope so try and get as many early night’s in as you can
   

3. •Keep moving - don’t ditch your regular exercise regime as this will give you the stamina required to make it through the demands of the festive season, as well as being a fabulous stress buster!
   

So get out there, spread the good cheer, cover your house in lights, love the scrooges and have a fabulous Christmas!

 

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Written by Faye Hollands, Director at Outshine Consulting.

Faye is an Advanced Practitioner in Coach Mastery, NLP Practitioner, Executive Coach, Business Coach and Time Line Therapist who has successfully coached countless clients on how to achieve their personal and professional goals successfully.

You can contact Faye on +61 2 9571 1684 or email fayehollands@outshineconsulting.com

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