7 Ways To Celebrate Christmas Without Overwhelming Yourself

Christmas is approaching soon. For some, it is indeed the most wonderful time of the year. However, for others, Christmas can be stressful. With all the planning, spending, traditions, and activities, this time of the year can be a real stressor. Remember that Christmas is about spending quality time with your loved ones, and below are some ways you can celebrate Christmas without overwhelming yourself.

1. Focus on the Activities and Traditions That Mean the Most to You:

Instead of practicing every tradition and ensuring you never miss out on every event and activity, why not pick only those that matter most to you and make the most out of them? If the current traditions don't seem ideal to you, how about breaking the old ones and creating new ones? Who knows, you and your loved ones might love the new traditions.

2. Simplify Christmas Decorations:

If the idea of decorating every corner of the house stresses you out, why not simplify it by just picking a centerpiece? It could be a beautifully lighted-themed Christmas tree in the living room, or a beautifully decorated dining table that will enchant your guests, or any place you prefer. You can always add some touches to other places in your house if you still wish to.

3. Get Help With Christmas Planning:

One of the smartest ways in Christmas planning is to get help. Involve your family members and kids; for example, one can help check out the best flight ticket deals for the family trip, while another person can plan out the Christmas Eve Dinner Menu. Or perhaps get your friends to help with Christmas decorations. You can make it a decoration party, blast the music, have some fun with decorating, and wrap up the party with warm milk and cookies or have meals together after the decorating party is done.

4. Make a Christmas Budget:

Christmas is about spending quality time with your loved ones, not overwhelming yourself with expensive meals or gifts. Create a Christmas budget and stick to it. Or better yet, start saving early. Check out The Budget Mom’s Blog Post - How to Budget for a Debt-Free Christmas. Also, budgeting helps you focus on the stuff that really matters most, and you will be less likely to overspend on things that you actually don’t need.

5. Make a Christmas Shopping List:

Before you go Christmas shopping, be sure to make a list or get clear on the items you want to get. Now repeat after me: “I don’t do Christmas shopping without a list.” Good. Sometimes you will get that extra item (that looks too cute) which are not on the list, just be sure it stays within your budget, or limit yourself (say, only 3 extra items allowed) in your shopping cart.

6. Go For Potluck, Takeaway, or Eating Out For Christmas Meal:

If cooking and entertaining guests are not your things, why not choose a good restaurant as a gathering place? (Provided that they don’t close for the Holiday Season). Or if you still prefer to have guests over at your house, opt for a potluck or takeaway instead. You and your loved ones will still get to enjoy the good times together without having to do too much prep or cleaning jobs.

7. Hire Cleaners To Help:

While we are busy enjoying the gatherings and activities, we also want to do it in a clean space. Consider hiring a part-time cleaner to help with the chores and cleaning job; it certainly can help you take off some of the load. If not, consider getting your family members to help with the chores and cleaning.

What are other tips you guys have to celebrate the Christmas season without overwhelming yourselves? Do share with us in the comments below, last but not least, have a great Christmas ahead!