Lifestyle

5 holiday activities that can stress you out this festive season and how to avoid them

By

bukky

Published on December 15, 2024

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The holiday season is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, filled with festivities, family gatherings, and cherished traditions.

However, the pressures of the holidays can also lead to stress and burnout. From endless to-do lists to the unrealistic pursuit of perfection, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

To enjoy the absolute best festive season and maintain your peace of mind this year, avoid these five common holiday stressors

1. Overcommitting your time

Between holiday parties, family gatherings, and community events, the invitations can pile up quickly. While it’s tempting to say yes to every invitation, overcommitting can leave you drained and frazzled.

Instead, prioritize events that truly matter to you and politely decline others. Remember, quality time with loved ones or a quiet evening at home can be just as fulfilling as attending every holiday function.

Avoidance tip:Set boundaries by deciding in advance how many events you’ll attend each week. Communicate your plans clearly and don’t feel guilty about saying no.

2. Last-minute shopping

Procrastinating on holiday shopping is a surefire way to add unnecessary stress to your holiday experience. Crowded malls, out-of-stock items, and rushed decisions can turn gift-giving into a frustrating ordeal. Additionally, scrambling to buy gifts at the last minute often results in overspending.

Avoidance tip:Start your shopping early and consider online options to avoid the chaos of physical stores. Create a budget and a list to keep your spending and purchases on track.

3. Trying to please everyone

The holidays can bring out the people-pleaser in all of us, whether it’s hosting the perfect dinner or finding the ideal gift for everyone.

But striving to meet everyone’s expectations can leave you feeling unappreciated and exhausted.

Remember, you can’t please everyone, and trying to do so often diminishes your own enjoyment of the season.

Avoidance tip:Focus on what makes the holiday meaningful for you and your immediate family. Accept that some people may be disappointed, and that’s okay.

4. Overindulging in food and drink

The holidays are synonymous with indulgence, from decadent feasts to festive cocktails. While it’s important to enjoy yourself, overindulging can lead to feelings of guilt, fatigue, and even health issues. Consuming too much sugar or alcohol can also affect your mood and energy levels, making it harder to manage holiday stress.

Avoidance tip:Practice mindful eating and drinking. Enjoy your favorite holiday treats in moderation and balance them with healthy options. Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to help your body handle the holiday hustle.

5. Neglecting self-care

Amid the busyness of the holiday season, self-care often takes a backseat. Skipping workouts, neglecting sleep, and ignoring your emotional needs can leave you feeling overwhelmed and depleted. The pressure to keep up with holiday demands makes it even more crucial to prioritize your well-being.

Avoidance tip:Carve out time each day to relax and recharge, whether it’s through meditation, a quick walk, or simply reading a book. Stick to your regular exercise routine and make sleep a priority to keep your energy levels steady.

The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and connection, not stress and anxiety. By avoiding these common stressors, you can create a more peaceful and meaningful holiday experience.

Remember, it’s okay to simplify your traditions, focus on what matters most, and take care of yourself along the way.

This year, let go of unnecessary pressures and embrace the true spirit of the season—love, gratitude, and togetherness. A stress-free holiday is the best gift you can give yourself and those around you.