I had a great time getting to know the ladies who attended my 12 Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday event last month and of course sharing my tips. I think everyone walked away with a new way of thinking about themselves and how they can find their own "Gateway to Freedom", which was my intention. Please watch my video and then explore below what the 12 tips can offer you. Enjoy!
1. Take Care of YOU!
As I mentioned in the video, don't neglect yourself. You are an important part of the whole experience! When you are under stress it can weaken your immune system and at the worst time. You don't have time to be sick! Drink lots of water, get a good nights sleep, manage your stress with exercise and supplement to keep your body and mind healthy.
2. Choose Your Desired Outcome
Think about what your desired out come is. what do you want the most our of the holidays? Check yourself. Are your expectations reasonable? Is this something you are able to accomplish? By deciding your outcome first you can better make a plan of how to get there. And don't forget to discuss your desires with your family.
3. Keep it Simple
Use the mantra: Simplify MY life! When you keep your gifts, meals and party plans simple it gives you more time and energy to enjoy life and more importantly the people around you.
4. The Beauty of Online Shopping
Take advantage of online shopping. Now, those big Cyber Monday sales are over, but that doesn't mean that there aren't deals to be had! Have your packages wrapped and sent directly to family far away. Many sites offer free shipping too. All this allows you to avoid the crowds, save gas, and shop at your convenience.
5. Plan Everything Ahead
It is never too early to start thinking and planning what you intend to do this holiday season. Having a dinner party? Write down your menu and make a list of what you need to purchase. Prepare the food ahead. Going shopping? Before you leave the house, plan your route so you don't drive all over town. Know where you are going and what you want to accomplish.
6. Give Gifts that Keep Giving
Wondering what to get that someone who has everything? Why not make a difference by donating to their favorite charity or cause? How about supporting a family in need in your community with a Christmas meal? Or even the gift of experience. You can have a family ski day, or attend a play. The gift of a family memory is one you will share for years to come.
7. Start and End Your Day with Gratitude
What a wonderful life! Take a few minutes before you jump out of bed to give thanks and to acknowledge that this is a great day. Use 3-10 minutes to write in your gratitude journal. This is proven to reduce stress!
8. Ask for Help When Entertaining
When in need, ask for help. And when it is offered, accept help. Try a potluck dinner party or as a friend to come early to assist you. Or hire a teenager to help clean up before or after the party.
9. Shop at Quiet Times
Although I have taken to online shopping, there are just somethings I still like to touch and feel before I buy. When I need to go to the store, I try to shop at quiet times. First thing in the morning is always pleasant and I have found the grocery store to be much calmer after the dinner hour.
10. Cook Easy
You can breeze through the holidays with ease when you carefully plan your day-to-day meals. Dust off your crock pot and try out some super easy (and healthy!) recipes. Need inspiration? Go to www.crockportgirls.com for some great ideas and video tutorials. When you come from the store, cut up and wash your vegetables right away for easy throw together meals and healthy snacks. Do you love holiday baking? Double your recipes by making "bite-sized" treats!
11. Get in the Mood
Turn on the tunes. Decorate your tree early. Light a scented candle. SMILE! When you set the tone it's hard not to smile, reminisce and enjoy this wonderful season.
12. Make an Appointment With Yourself.
Last, but not least, make a daily or at least weekly appointment with yourself. Take a long hot bubble bath. Enjoy a glass of wine. Call your best friend to chat. Take a walk. Whatever it is that makes you most happy...DO IT! Don't forget your appointment of blow it off. You wouldn't miss a doctors appointment if you were sick, so don't miss this one. It just may be the best gift you will give yourself!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
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