5 Ways to Beat Holiday Stress

The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but they can also be pretty stressful. You have to buy gifts, attend Christmas parties, and be careful not to go over budget. It can get to be a lot. Stress can also make you sick, and we don't want you to be sick during the holidays! Here are some tips you can try out to beat that holiday stress.

1. Watch Your budget
Try to not go over your budget. If you're nearing your limit, see if you can DIY some gifts or remove some gifts from your list. Everyone goes through financial hardships at some point in their life, so if someone doesn't receive "the best gift ever" from you, they'll understand.

A great gift that you can get your children for a low price is a Savings Account! Opening your child a savings account is the best gift as it teaches them financial responsibility and encourages them to save. Not only that, your child will be ahead of the game when it comes to being financially independent.

2. Give Back to Your Community
Clean out your closet and donate gently worn items to your local women's shelter or Goodwill. Volunteer at a shelter for Christmas dinner or donate money. When you actively give back to your community, your stress levels decrease.

3. Stick to a Schedule and Take Some "Me" Time
The holidays are always hectic. You find yourself running around trying to get all of your Christmas shopping and gift wrapping finished before Christmas Day, or you find yourself attending one too many social gatherings. You can't do it all in one month! Take some time for yourself so you can relax and recharge. Give yourself a timeline of when you'll get the Christmas shopping done. Make sure to schedule the parties around your time! Taking care of yourself first is key to keeping those stress levels low and getting through the holidays.

4. Delegate
You don't have to do everything on your own, you know? If you're hosting a Holiday party, see if your friends and family can help with the cooking and cleaning! People love to help, so it doesn't hurt to ask around. When you delegate and give people a task, it makes them feel included and happy, and you feel more relaxed!

5. Lower Your Expectations
We expect a lot during the holidays. We have a fixed view of how things should be and how people should behave and it stresses us out when those expectations aren't met. When you stop expecting things to go according to plan and learn to go with the flow, you'll be less stressed this holiday season.

Why not get ahead of next holiday season? It's never too early to start planning and getting prepped for the holidays! Set up a Christmas Club Account with us so you can start saving for next year. And remember, shop throughout the year for the best deals!