If you’re experiencing stress & anxiety during the holidays, wondering just how you’re going to get it all done, here are a few tips to help you beat the holiday stress.
Take Care of Yourself.
We all tend to run, run, run, and sometimes forget to stop and take care of ourselves. Take a break. Go for a walk or to the gym, meet a friend for a cup of coffee or lunch, or see a movie. Taking a break from the stresses will ultimately increase your productivity and help you beat the holiday stress.
Make a List, Check it Twice, and Delegate.
You don’t have to do everything yourself. Give up the notion that nobody can do it as well as you. Maybe your spouse doesn’t have the best gift-wrapping skills; that’s OK. I’m pretty sure your gift recipients will forgive a less-than-perfect wrap job (if they even notice!). Take the time to make a detailed grocery list and send your teenager to the store for you. Ask a friend if they’ll be going shopping anytime soon and ask if they would mind picking up the online order you placed.
Click, Click, Click.
Online Shopping is our friend. Not only for gifts delivered, but many grocery stores now offer online ordering with curbside pick-up. Grocery shop on your terms in your PJs on the couch, save the hassle of crowded stores while saving time and beating down on the holiday stress. Winning!
Gift Give with a Theme
It’s not always easy deciding what to buy for each person on your list. Consider going with a yearly theme. For example, give everyone on your list this year PJs & Slippers, or the latest and greatest kitchen gadget.
Cook/Bake Ahead and Freeze.
Ease the same-day stress of hosting the holidays at your home. Many cookies, pies, and casseroles freeze well.
Focus on the Present.
When we take the time to appreciate the moment, we stop stressing about the rest.
Hire Help.
A personal South Florida home concierge can assist you with card writing, shopping, decorating, errands, and more. Hire a babysitter so you can leave the kids at home while shopping or a cleaning service to clean the house before your company arrives.
Set Manageable Expectations.
Some describe stress as the difference between our expectations and reality.
Most Importantly...Remember what the holidays are really about
When it’s over and the dust has settled, it’s time to regroup, organize, and head into the new year with a clear plate. Consider the one-in, one-out rule, and for every new item you receive as a gift, donate something you no longer use. If you have a home inventory, update it with the ins/outs. If you are going on a long business trip, there’s no time like the present to hire a Home Watch professional in South Florida!
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