Remember Yourself During the Holiday Season
by How to keep your personal sanity around the holidays.
Far too often we think about pleasing others instead of ourselves around the holiday season. Though it’s the season to be giving, we neglect ourselves and bring about personal stress and unhappiness. But the good news is that there are several ways to avoid the holiday blues.
Just Say No
It is ok to say no. If you have more than one or two events on a single day, it is ok to explain to various friends/relatives that you already have prior commitments. Though imminent disappointment will be felt by the rejected party, they have other things to be concerned about. Pick the parties that you want to go to – not the ones you feel obligated to attend. The holidays are about your personal happiness too!
Shop to your personal financial situation
It’s no secret that finances are tight this holiday season. Fortunately (or unfortunately) you are not the only one feeling the financial crunch. Don’t spend money where it doesn’t need to be spent. First, focus on your bills and food, and then worry about Christmas. Your great-great aunt twice removed doesn’t need a $50 gift card when a simple card will do. It will let her know that you didn’t forget about her and it is better than being sheepish and not doing anything due to personal embarrassment. Also, it is okay to send an IOU in the card. If you choose to do this, be sure to follow-up with the gift!
Plan, Plan, Plan
One of the greatest stresses around the holiday season is bound to be financial – whether we are in the middle of a financial crisis or not. Plan in advance for Christmas! It’s easier to plan for Christmas than many other adventures in your life because it arrives at the same time every year without fail. Every Christmas we say to ourselves, “I’m going to save money for Christmas next year,” but how many people actually do it? The truth is that very few people plan. We whip out that piece of plastic like we planned to do that all along. It’s actually quite simple to save for Christmas shopping. Put aside $100 a month (or however much you need to reach you goal) into a savings account (or a Christmas club if your bank offers it.) Certificates of Deposit (CDs) are always great if you plan way out in advance. However you choose to save, remember that making things a little tighter throughout the year will make the holidays go by much more smoothly.
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