Clients have been asking me for some ideas to deal with holiday stress. Invariably, we find ourselves with too much to do and not enough time to get it all done. Finding a way to spend time with friends and family can add an additional layer of complication to this season.
1. Gift Giving
Try to eliminate the tendency for excessive gift giving this season.
Gift giving and the expectation to ”give” creates financial hardship for many people already on a tight budget. Rather than exchanging gifts with friends, why not plan a get together AFTER the holidays. Instead of buying gifts, agree on a plan to do something fun – lunch out, a movie, a play, or some other activity . SPLIT THE BILL – save money and give yourself – and your friends – the gift of time together.
Do the same with family. Instead of stressing out over what to buy or spending too much money on gifts, plan to spend a family day – either during the holidays or afterwards. Agree that everyone will split the costs evenly – agree on a play downtown or at a local theatre; pick a restaurant everyone would like to try; take a hay ride; go to a museum . . . .what you do is less important than enjoying time together
Another option is to do a family grab-bag. Have everyone draw a name and buy a gift for one person rather than feeling the obligation to buy something for everyone. With larger families, purchasing for everyone can be quite costly.
2. Time
If at all possible, spread out family visits – the holidays are not about cramming everything and everyone into one or two days. Explore the possibility of seeing family on days other than the actual holidays themselves.
To the extent that you can shop/order on line, do so. Often , shipping is free and this will allow you to utilize the time you have more efficiently.
Don’t forget GIFT CARDS ! A GIFT CARD to a favorite store is always appreciated. If you know where someone has their hair cut, their car serviced, the movie theatre they attend or what grocery store they frequent – consider purchasing a gift card. Your thoughtfulness in selecting the service/retailor will be appreciated !
