Help for the Holidays

Help for the Holidays

Cut back on holiday stress.

The best way to douse holiday cheer? Fill the season with stress. Avoid overworking and overspending this holiday season by following these simple rules.

• Instead of buying gifts for all of your friends, organize a holiday cookie exchange. Enjoy a refreshing dose of girl talk and come home with a variety of treats your family will love.

• At family gatherings, avoid conversation topics that strike a nerve in your family members. The holidays are not the time to “talk through” old battles. Wait for a time when everyone is more  relaxed and reasonable.

• Ban commercials during the holiday season, especially if your children are younger. This may be difficult, but you’ll realize the benefits when you aren’t having to deal with as many “I want, I want, I want” comments. Simply mute the volume and hand them a toy, promising to turn the sound back on once the show returns. Or only allow movies.

• Stick to a budget. No exceptions.