The holidays are one of the most stressful times for parents and sometimes it can feel like there are too many things to get done that it may seem impossible to actually accomplish anything. Sometimes the best way to handle the holiday stress is to find ways to save time and to make you feel more in control of your life. Here are some simple tips that will help you not only get through the holiday season, but also thrive and find enjoyment in one of the most exciting times of the year.

Make Checklists

This may seem like an obvious or simple tip, but in reality getting organized is the first step to preparing for the holidays and for feeling like you are more in control during this hectic time of the year. If you are feeling overwhelmed with the amount of things that you have to get done, the first step is to write down everything and then create an organized checklist and schedule. There are many online checklist options that you can choose from if you prefer electronic over paper checklists.  

Simplify

After you have written down everything that you need to do, it may be a good idea to cut down on some of the unnecessary items that you listed. The holiday season is a time when people overcomplicate things, so try to simplify. For example, if cutting down a live Christmas tree is on your list, consider buying a fake Christmas tree, which can save you time and energy. Instead of trying to plan complicated activities with your kids, try something simple like driving around to see the Christmas lights or playing games as a family. Overall, your kids will appreciate the time you spend with them and remember these moments regardless of how much time or money you invest in the holiday activities or even the presents.

Meditate

If you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed or particularly stressed despite doing the tips listed above, it may be time to take some time for yourself in order to de-stress. One of the best ways to do this is through meditation. Meditation is helpful in lowering stress and anxiety, so it will come particularly in handy during this stressful time of the year. It will allow you to have a minute to breathe and focus your mind on something other than the stress of the holidays. Whether you are a meditating expert or you have never tried it in your life, anyone can practice meditation by sparing five to ten minutes to sit and focus on his or her breathing. There are also guided meditation practices online and apps that will help you meditate.

Order Groceries Online

One of the most stressful parts about the holidays is all of the food that you have to prepare. One simple way to save time is to order the groceries you need online. This will not only save you time, but will also allow you to avoid the stress of shopping in a busy grocery store during the holidays. There are a variety of options for online grocery shopping: Amazon has non-perishable groceries that are often cheaper than items you buy in store, many stores (including Walmart) have grocery-delivery services that deliver straight to your door, or you can utilize the free pick-up options that many grocery stores offer, which allows you to order your groceries online and they will bring your groceries to your car for free.

Find Time to Sleep

Despite all of the things that you have to do during the holidays, it is still important that you get enough sleep each night. Being well rested will allow you to do with the stress throughout the day and get everything done that you need to accomplish. Try to stick to a set sleep schedule and avoid starting a project that you won’t be able to finish before you will need to go to bed.

Overall, following these tips of small things you can do throughout the holiday season will help you to reduce stress, save time, and enjoy the holidays with your family.