"Tis the season

Family gatherings, big meals, gift exchanges, traditions... sounds fun, doesn't it?  Anybody read this first line and also feel the stress building, the to-do list forming in your thoughts or the clock ticking away as you scramble to prepare?

December, while often a joyous month, can also bring with it a host of challenges.  Luckily for us, there are a few things you can do to ease the stress.

1. Set family priorities for the season - the intent of prioritizing is to limit trying to fit too much into a small amount of time.  Decide which traditions are important to you, ask your spouse and your children which traditions are their favorites and as a family consider which activities can be taken off your plate, even if just for this year.
2. Learn to say "no" - on the heels of prioritizing, is the task of holding to it!  Should guilt creep in, remind yourself that you are putting the NEED to relax and simply enjoy downtime first, and you can always feel good about that!
3. Use shortcuts - shop online, order pizza, pick up a pre-made dessert at the store.  
4. Focus on the meaningful - talk with your children about the reason behind the holiday you are celebrating.  Find ways to show gratitude and give to others.  
5. If you feel stress, that's ok!  Recognize it and take a step to reduce it.  
6. Get plenty of rest - sleep deficits are harmful to your brain's ability to problem solve.  So fall asleep on the couch during a favorite movie, retire early with a good book, or sneak in an afternoon nap.
7. Lastly, take pride that your example may be giving someone else the green light to let go of the idea of doing it all, and doing it perfectly, during the holidays. 

If you'd like to read more on the topic, I'd suggest the following two articles:
Stanford University
The Dougy Center - Grief during the holidays