Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma

While ‘tis the season to be jolly, ’tis also the season for stress galore! The holidays can bring with them many pressures, such as cooking a giant dinners, throwing a party, being around the whole family (even the ones you tend to avoid) and spending a chunk of your savings on gifts. Feeling overwhelmed during the holidays has become almost natural! 

We have some holly jolly news for you: there are simple steps you can take to minimize the amount of stress you feel this year. Try these five ways to beat holiday stress:

1. Have realistic expectations
   In the movies, holidays are often a series of seamless greeting card moments. It’s ok if your holidays aren’t picture perfect! This time of year is about making good memories. Don’t set yourself up for disappointment by romanticizing the holidays. Instead, make a list of traditions you feel you can and want to uphold–don’t worry about everything else!

2. Stick to a set budget
   The holidays can get expensive. Avoid the January panic attack when all your bills come in, and instead, set a holiday budget for gifts, food and alcohol. A simple way to avoid overspending is  shopping with cash only. Leave your credit cards at home.

3. Treat yourself
   Many of us are so focused on pleasing others during the holidays that our own needs end up on the backburner. We know it’s hard, but whenever possible, take some time out of your busy schedule and do something you enjoy. Go to the movies, go out for hot chocolate or get a manicure to help you relieve some stress.

4. Don’t overdo it
   Don’t push yourself too hard. There’s a lot going on this time of year. Back-to-back parties, holiday parades and kids’ performances.  Know your limits and when to say no.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
   You don’t have to take on the holidays by yourself. Reach out to your partner/spouse and ask them to help you cook, clean and buy gifts. If your anxiety becomes too much for you to deal with, consider talking with your doctor or a mental health professional.

The holidays do not have to be a stressful time if you come prepared. These tips can help you manage your levels of holiday stress so that your holidays can be a joyful and festive time – which brings us to our final point: try our Centered Mobile App  to help kick holiday stress during this time of the year and any time of the year!