Tips for a Stress Free Christmas

Christmas is a busy time for many of us. There are so many things to do, purchase and organise, that it can quickly become stressful. Then before we know it it is over in the blink of an eye.

Below are my tips for a stress free Christmas. And if you are looking for some fun things to do in the run up to Christmas there here is my Wonderfully Festive Christmas Bucket List post.

Shop Early

Getting your Christmas shopping out of the way, nice and early, means you can spend more of the festive build up doing things you enjoy doing. Shopping throughout the year spreads out the cost plus it means you can take advantage of on sale items. If you enjoy Christmas shopping around Christmas time why not shop for the little festive extras around then.

Delegate

You don’t need to do everything yourself so delegate and ask for help.. If you live with a partner or other family members then give them tasks to help out. Whether it is giving them additional items on a shopping list to help cater for the Christmas dinner or if you need a hand wrapping all the gifts. Delegate some of the activities to free up some of your time to do things you enjoy. 

Plan Ahead

This really is one of the top tips for a stress free Christmas. Being organised and having a plan will really help especially if you are hosting Christmas gatherings or Christmas day. From lists of gifts for everyone to who’s getting a christmas card and what you plan to cook and eat. Having a plan will help keep you on track with what needs doing. 

Have back up gifts

Had an unexpected visitor over the Christmas break who arrives with a gift and you have nothing to give in return? It happens to the best of us. Items like a stylish hot water bottle, hot chocolate set, bottles of wine, these all make for nice little gifts for any unexpected guest. 

Stop Seeking Perfection

Who said you need to make your own Christmas cards? Or print your own wrapping paper? Or have a stylish Christmas Wreath and outdoor lights display to compete with your neighbours? If it’s something that you really aren’t fussed with then don’t put yourself through the stress of doing it. Supermarket bought cards and decorations always go down well. And if hand making everything is something you personally enjoy doing, then make sure you make the time to do it and delegate other tasks to other people.

Don’t Feel Pressured to Spend a Fortune

It really is the thought that counts. You don’t need to spend a fortune or put everything on a credit card for the sake of one day. Take advantage of sales, make something handmade and unique, set budgets with family and friends earlier on so you don’t feel pressured to over spend. Christmas is a celebratory day that we spend with loved ones and it’s not all about the gifts. 

Enjoy the Build Up

Most importantly, enjoy this time of year and the thrill that the festivities can bring. Take time out from organising and purchasing and spend an evening watching Christmas films with your loved ones. Have an afternoon of Christmas baking because you want to or take