Staying Sane Through the Holidays

Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash

The end of the year is upon us, and with that comes a lot. From holidays to school closures to cold weather, it seems like everywhere we turn, we’re getting hit with something new. While this can be an incredibly magical and wonderful time of year, it can also be filled with stress. If you’re looking for some ways to stay sane through the holidays, we’ve got some things for you to try.

1. Limit Your Schedule

There’s a lot of stuff going on right now. If you have kids, they are more than likely putting on holiday shows at school or preparing for class parties. There are also work functions and friend/family gatherings to go to. All of these are occurring in addition to the normal schedule of life.

If you want to make it through this time of year with your sanity and energy intact, then you should consider limiting your schedule. Invest your time and energy in the events that are most important to you. If that means seeing your kid on stage, make sure you are there. If you want to spend time with friends and family, put it on your schedule.

You don’t have to go to everything that’s offered to you. If there are events that you feel obligated to go to, limit how much time you spend there. Keep the visit to an hour or two so that you’re not spreading yourself too thin.

2. Stay Within Your Budget

This is the season of giving, and you want to make sure your loved ones know how much you care—and buying a present is the best way to accomplish that goal. However, it doesn’t take long for the spending to get out of hand. Then, you find yourself stressed because you don’t have the money you need for every day expenses.

There are other ways to “give gifts” this time of year that can be done for cheap. People appreciate homemade gifts. Consider baking them some delicious treats. You can even have the kids help. There’s nothing better than spending a weekend decorating cookies to pass out to friends and family—or to give to your neighbors, teachers, or mail carrier. They get a scrumptious treat, and you get to spend time with your children.

What other crafty skills do you have? Put them to use and create unique, heart-felt gifts that won’t break the bank.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

 3. Take Some Time for You

Taking care of everyone else during this time of year is going to drain you. Sure, it’s fun being around family and friends, but it can quickly become overwhelming. To maintain your sanity, make sure you take some time for yourself.

It doesn’t have to be much. Even 10 minutes a day doing something you enjoy (or sitting in silence) can have a positive impact on your mental health. If you want to take more time to refresh and recharge, have at it!

You can’t be jolly if you’re rundown and exhausted, so remember to do something that makes you feel good. Not only will you thank yourself, but those around you will thank you as well.

An Amazing Time of Year

The end of the year can be busy, but it’s also amazing. To enjoy the holidays to the utmost, you need to keep your sanity intact. Share your time and joy with others, but also slow down and appreciate what’s around you.