Blast Away Holiday Stress

Nobody wants to be Scrooge during the holiday season. But things like lost luggage, overspending, cooking catastrophes, and gift disasters can quickly turn a joyous occasion into a spiral of “Bah, humbug.”

With some careful planning and a positive attitude, one can weather the holiday storms and ultimately enjoy this season with family and friends.   Here are five helpful tips to keep stress at bay this holiday season, and stay focused on what’s most important:

Making a List and Checking it Twice

The best part about holiday stress is that it’s easy to predict.  To avoid getting stuck buying gifts, waiting in lines, and making plans at the last minute, make a list of the gifts that need to be bought, plan on when to shop for them, and execute the plan.

Holiday Happiness is Not for Sale

Carrying a holiday debt well past the holiday season is a tradition too many are accustomed to.  The effects of lingering holiday debt can cast a shadow long into the New Year. Make a holiday budget that’s comfortable, get creative with inexpensive gift ideas, and shop early to avoid last-minute splurges.

Don’t Leave Too Many Cookies Out for Santa

The temptation of rich desserts and other holiday foods leads many to overindulge during the holidays.  With an abundance of holiday parties, many people tend to eat, drink, and be merry—but not without consequence.  Eat healthily when you can to keep up energy and avoid the post-feast stress.

A Time for Family…But Not Too Much

Extended family coming together is one of the wonderful aspects of the holidays, but reunions aren’t always the smoothest of meetings. Stress and different personalities may create rifts and rekindle old grudges that have lied dormant for years.  Find a healthy balance between bonding and alone time to make the most out of time spent with loved ones.

Support Each Other

Many people do not have families or close friends nearby to spend holiday season with.  For those who know someone like this, reach out to them.  A simple dinner request or party invite can be enough to pull someone out of their holiday gloom and make for a joyous season for everyone.

For more help in alleviating the stress and pressure of the holidays, feel free to contact the experts at ACI Specialty Benefits by calling (800) 932-0034, or email at eapinfo@acispecialtybenefits.com.