Each year at Christmas time, what has become the “normal” busy and hectic pace of the season threatens to overtake my focus and celebrations. Christmas is my favorite holiday and it can pass by in a blur if I let it. Ever feel the same way?
So, how can we focus on the real meaning of the holiday and feel less stressed while doing it? Here are three tips:
1. Plan Ahead, Spend less
While there is nothing wrong with buying gifts for loved ones, Christmas is a time when many people spend themselves into debt, and miss out on enjoying the real reason for the celebration–Jesus–because they’re trying to find “the perfect” gifts.
For a less stressful experience, I limit the number of gifts I buy and make sure they fit into my budget. Try shopping online in November or buying gifts throughout the year as you see something your loved one will like. Stock up on wrapping paper for next year when it’s half off this year after Christmas and prepare your Christmas cards in November. Then you won’t have a last minute shopping rush.
I find that the more organized I am leading up to the holidays, the more time there is to enjoy them stress-free.
2. Have Each Family Member Choose Something Meaningful
Whether you are a couple or also have kids, have each member of your household choose one holiday activity to do in December that’s important to them and then do it as a family.
Some examples are going ice skating, drinking hot cocoa and watching a Christmas movie at home, or strolling around the neighborhood to look at Christmas lights. Or you could go see a performance of the Nutcracker or Handel’s Messiah.
Choosing one main activity each ensures that everyone in the family gets to enjoy the holiday without overbooking your family to the point of exhaustion. If you are feeling overwhelmed by your calendar it’s often difficult to even enjoy the activities you’re participating in.
3. There is Freedom in Saying No.
Saying no to some of the party and activity invites coming your way may initially make you feel like the Grinch. But in reality, if you over pack your schedule, it’s likely you will feel overwhelmed, stressed and miss out on appreciating some of the quiet joys of the season.
Don’t do everything offered this holiday season.
Make the season more about the reason…Jesus! Take time to read about the birth of Jesus in Luke and Matthew as a family or as a couple. Read a little each day this December. Take time to talk about what you’re thankful for. Take time to worship God with other believers. Take time to help someone in need.
This year, join me in being intentional about down-scaling a bit so we can enjoy our friends, families and the season without going into overdrive. Let’s go through December feeling blessed rather than stressed!
