Three Hours in Line, Two Drunken Uncles, and a Maxed-Out Credit Card Limit

Three Hours in Line, Two Drunken Uncles, and a Maxed-Out Credit Card Limit

The holiday season is upon us. The radio stations are already playing Christmas music and the advertising push is on for us to shop, shop, shop. Pressure mounts to buy the perfect gift, decorate our homes like a magazine, and host a flawless family meal. Planning and preparing for the holidays can place undo strain on our already stressed lives.

To fully enjoy this special time of year, we need to first determine what causes our stress---long lines in department stores, relationship conflict with family, loneliness due to loss of loved ones? All of us have triggers and emotional responses. By identifying these triggers beforehand, we can prepare ourselves mentally and better plan our reactions. Before running out the door with a list of price-busters, spend some time choosing which holiday traditions mean the most to you and warrant your time and energy. Simplify by eliminating those traditions that bring you stress rather than joy.

Time: schedule and organize your time more effectively and shop during hours to avoid long lines. Money: set realistic budget guidelines and avoid impulse spending. Family conflict: reframe situations in a positive light and set standards and boundaries ahead of time. Overeating and drinking: build in time for additional exercise and allow yourself your favorite treats (just not ALL treats). Loneliness or depression: volunteer your time and talents to help someone else, consider new traditions, or take a vacation.

Stress is not all bad. It motivates and challenges us. Much of our stress is brought about by our perceptions, not our reality. Understanding and identifying what stresses us enables us to develop good coping mechanisms that we can employ at all times of the year.

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