Holiday Stress Busters

Choose not to overspend, and refuse to charge on your credit cards this year. If it takes you more than two months to pay off your holiday shopping, you may be missing the point of Christmas. Spending yourself into debt is a dangerous trap that increases stress levels--some Americans spend 30% of their income on credit card debt. Imagine what you could buy (paying cash) if you weren't struggling to pay off last year's Christmas shopping. Refuse to over-eat and drink. Maintaining your normal diet is vital during the rush of the holidays. Starting the New Year with extra weight from over-indulging not only increases stress, but it's also depressing. Keep your holiday expectations in check. Avoid the letdown caused by unrealistic thinking and planning. You may decide a family meeting is in order to communicate needs, abilities and parameters to head off disappointments.

Shopping this time of year is often very stressful. Check your schedule to determine if you can shop in the off-peak times. If not, allow yourself extra time so the crowds don't add to your stress. Focus on a positive outcome for your shopping excursions and try to hold in your heart and mind the reason for the season. Breathe deep and slowly when you feel your stress levels rising. You may not be able to do anything about the crowds, but you are in control of how you allow it to affect you. So, be the first to offer the other shoppers a bright holiday smile - it's infectious.