The holiday season is a fun and joyous time but also a very busy one, and holiday stress and anxiety can and does happen. During the holidays, there are lots of fun activities and events. However, there may also be a massive workload and over commitment to events, causing one to feel anything but joyful. The holiday season is meant to be a blessed season if properly planned, but without adequate preparation, it can cause unbearable stress.
Start by making a plan. You will need time away from the office, while still completing necessary tasks and meeting deadlines. For your holiday to be a stressed or blessed one, It’s all about preparation, and not just for the holidays. Make clear decisions about how you want to spend your precious time and resources during the busy holiday season.
How to Combat Stress During the Busy Holiday Season
The following guidelines will help you have blessed holiday season rather than a stressed one.
Set your Priorities
Constantly evaluate your workload to determine what is most important and what can wait. Handle urgent matters first, and take everything else in gradually. You can pick a few favorite activities that is of interest to you and enjoy them while skipping the rest.
Set Realistic Goals
Set your goals to a level you can attain by writing it down. Putting your plans on paper can show you, in black and white, how realistic they are. Use a planner to know if you’re trying to pack in too much. Start with the most important activities on your priority list, so you will be able to eliminate the less important activities. Don’t forget to add extra time for travel delays.
Make Time for Exercise
Research has proven that exercise is an excellent stress reliever that boosts endorphins and helps keep your mind focused outside of the workplace. Rearrange your schedule to make sure regular workouts can happen even when you have a lot on your to-do list. If you already have a routine, stick to it as much as possible.
Prayer
Prayer can help you maintain focus on the eternal during the busy holiday season. Before your day begins, take 10-30 minutes to read and meditate on God’s word. If you’re feeling stressed in the middle of your day, find a quiet place to sit and pray for a few minutes, this will bring you great relief.
By applying just a few of these practices, you can open up the door to a better happier, healthier holiday season that will not be stressed but rather blessed. If you take care of yourself, you will enjoy your blessing to the utmost and you, in turn, will be a blessing to those around you.