The holiday season is typically so busy that it is easy to get overwhelmed with responsibilities and holiday plans. We all need to take a few minutes to breathe and prepare so we can enjoy the season instead of just surviving. This is a great year to make new traditions and create memories during the holiday season.

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10 Tips to Enjoy the Holiday Season

Plan Ahead

Now is the time to get started on all of the things that you know you are going to need to do this holiday season. Can you stay up an extra hour and knock out some online Christmas shopping online? Maybe you can take care of the teacher’s gifts now instead of waiting until the night before. Are you planning to send Christmas cards? Get them ready this week.

Chances are that many of us often procrastinate and feel like we are behind. Once you get behind, it’s easy to start comparing yourself to others who look like they have it all together. Remember that just because someone looks like they are getting it all done, they are probably feeling the stress on a level you just don’t see on social media.

Stick to a Budget

With all the shiny new things being advertised everywhere you look, it’s easy to fall into the trap of spending more than you can afford. Put a cap on your spending and budget your dollars so you won’t go into a new year owing for this holiday season.

Start New Traditions

As kids get older and families grow, traditions are going to have to change. Don’t try to repeat the same things from years past. Traditions are wonderful but are not meant to be exactly copied each year. Remember, that traditions must evolve as people and lives change.

Remember why you Celebrate

This is the time of year that the whole world thinks about baby Jesus. Take the time to sit back and consider why we celebrate and spend some time being thankful for more than Santa.

Do what works for you

If you don’t want to do Christmas cards, then don’t. But don’t judge someone else for spending hours creating the perfect homemade card. Just because you may not want to make six dozen of the most Pinterest-worthy Christmas cookies doesn’t mean that it’s crazy for someone else to do it. Let each person celebrate the season with the traditions, crafts, and activities that work for them and their family.

Live in the moment

The Christmas holiday season is a very nostalgic time of year. Don’t let the worry of what could happen tomorrow ruin today. Don’t let “what if” take away the joy of “what is”. When you start feeling yourself get overwhelmed, don’t let yourself wish away the season by rushing through the events. Enjoy each program, pageant, party, and event. Treasure the moments; embrace the holidays and take lots of pictures.

Don’t let “what if” take away the joy of “what is”.

Only do what you can

The holidays are full of amazing opportunities. There is a definite trend to say yes to everything. Instead, think about what you want to say yes to and then learn the art of saying no.

Wrap presents early

This one is especially true for the little ones. It’s always tempting to sneak a look and see what is hidden behind the closet door. In our house, we wrap presents as soon as we buy them. That way there are no unplanned surprise discoveries.

Give Back

This year has been hard on many families. Look for ways to give to others this holiday season. Do something small to share the joy of the season with the ones around you.

Be creative with the truth

Tis the season for sharing, surprises, conspiracies … and a few white lies. After all, it’s pretty tough to hide the fact that you bought someone’s special gift at their favorite store without doing a little creative storytelling. Remember our $5 Holiday Gift traditions we have with the kids? There are definitely some creative stories being told.

Are you ready for the holidays? Do you have any suggestions for loving the holiday season? I’d love to hear! Let’s breathe, prepare, and enjoy the time with our family!