The Truth About Managing Holiday Stress

When you hear the word “holidays,” does your body immediately go into survival mode? Tight deadlines and high expectations to be happy and joyful contribute to increased stress and anxiety during the holiday season. How can you manage this?
Based on an article from stress.org, 69% of people are stressed this time of year because of a perceived lack of time and money. And over 50% are stressed about the pressure to give or receive gifts.
You may have accepted long ago that between late November and early January, you’re going to be stressed. But the truth about managing holiday stress is, you are in control. You don’t have to live with holiday stress every year! There are things you can do to help mitigate some of this stress so you can enjoy the holidays and come back to work feeling refreshed.
There are always going to be non-negotiables or factors out of your control. By homing in on the things you can change, you are setting yourself up for success to tackle situations that would typically be stressful or overwhelming.
“I can get disjointed throughout the day, going from one thing to the next. I’ve learned to meditate every day to reverse that,” – Dr. Ryan Todd, father, physician, entrepreneur
An added stress this year on top of the typical ones (i.e., social situations, more time with family) is COVID-19. Depending on the area you live in, this may look like scheduling virtual get-togethers, outdoor visits, or smaller gatherings to eliminate any stress or anxiety large groups might bring.
Nailing each of these tips will not guarantee you a stress-free holiday, but it will give you a leg up when navigating the hustle and bustle this season. Share “The Truth About Managing Holiday Stress” with your friends and family to help them overcome stress and to keep you all accountable. Most importantly, try to relax and enjoy some well-deserved R & R. Happy holidays!