Surviving the Holidays: Simple Tips to Save Your Sanity

Today we kicked off the holiday season with a shopping fundraiser to benefit our local senior center. Although we had a great crowd and sales were good, I have to admit I heard a bit of rumbling--"It's too early to think about Christmas...it's not even Thanksgiving yet!"...I completely disagree, and this is why...

Much of the stress of the holidays is caused by procrastination and the lack of planning. The holiday season spans much more than one day, folks! The earlier you begin to shop, entertaining friends, and exchange gifts the less stress you will have during peak season! Here are a few tips to help you rethink your holiday giving strategy and enjoy the season from this moment forward.

• Sit down with your calendar and block off a few dates that you plan to have available to celebrate with extended family and friends. Get on the phone and coordinate a holiday visit, dinner, brunch, pot-luck or gift exchange (if applicable) as early as possible. Plan on exchanging any gifts on that date...even if it is next week!
• Stressed financially? Now is the time to re-evaluate your gift list and set a firm budget. Rather than cross people off of your list, consider an affordable lunch or breakfast party where you can enjoy a delicious meal together...go out, or cook in! Creating a new holiday tradition can save you money and enrich your relationships for years to come!
• Give holiday themed gifts BEFORE the peak holiday season! Examples include fresh evergreen wreaths, poinsettia plants, holiday centerpieces, and fashion accessories that can be enjoyed during the holiday festivities. Giving something with a holiday theme after peak season just doesn't make a lot of sense to me. To be very honest, the gift is most likely going directly into the attic or closet just to be forgotten until next year. Where is the fun in that?
• Strapped for time? Never feel obligated to spread yourself so thin that you can't enjoy the holiday season! Remember your favorite childhood holiday memories and build your holiday schedule around what makes you and your immediate family happy. Schedule post-holiday visits with those you were unable to see after the New Year. It will give you both something to look forward to without the added stress!

How do you keep sane during the holidays? Any great sanity saving tips that work for you? Please share in the comments below!

PS...this is my Mother, Jo Ann. As you can see, we share the same holiday spirit and avid sense of humor! She came out to the fundraiser today and got the party started! Love you, Mom!