1. Division of the responsibilities

Christmas is a family celebration. Therefore, all family members should not only be involved in the celebration, but in the preparation as well. In addition, when everyone takes on one or more tasks, it becomes much more easy and enjoyable. Thus, a big part from the stress is also gone. Who said you have to be a superhero and do it all by yourself? However, it is also more fun if you prepare the whole thing together. It may sound like a cliché, but decorating the Christmas tree is one of the best and most memorable Christmas activities, when it’s done together with the family.

2. Determine your priorities

During the Christmas season, one is often overwhelmed by the entire preparation and the related stress. Often, beside the everyday tasks there is no time for relaxation. Therefore, it isn’t a surprise that one’s own needs are often stuck in the background. Engagements, to-do and grocery lists are mostly a priority. However, the link between this and increased stress level and even burnout-state it’s not uncommon. But this is probably not new to you. You can avoid it by taking breaks from time to time and by paying more attention to your own needs. Sometimes one hour more sleep or 10 minutes more under the shower are crucial. Let yourself relax from time to time. It has been scientifically proven that even half an hour for self-care a day is sufficient to avoid stress.

3. A perfect Christmas doesn’t exist

Don’t forget that not everything depends on you and that you cannot have 100% control, even if your intentions are purely altruistic. No matter how much effort you put in to planning and the organizing, the likelihood of someone’s dissatisfaction is high. Conflicts and arguments can be also expected during the Christmas season. Unfortunately, that’s all part of it. Don’t be disappointed. On the contrary, go with the flow. If you have high expectations, drop them. Allow yourself and everyone else more serenity. After all, Christmas is also a celebration of peace and relaxation.

4. Christmas is not just a duty

The sense of duty around Christmas is often very strong, especially when it comes to invitations. Who do you have to visit and who else you have to invite are the two inevitable questions. However, when the duties grow more and more, things tend to get complicated. Allow yourself to break the tradition, if it’s too much for you. Just say “no” and enjoy the Christmas season! You could also make it easier by postponing some of the Christmas visits for a better time. In this case you’d also have more time for presents shopping and to just let yourself take it easy.

5. Let yourself relax / have fun

Forget for 1-2 days for all your tasks and duties. Turn even your cell phone off or at least the notifications and let yourself relax for a moment. Forget about all deadlines and just live for the moment. Above all, Christmas is a celebration that should bring you happiness and inner peace. Allow yourself to push briefly all different problems in the background and to just have fun!