The list of to-dos is a mile long, including but not limited to: decorate the house, bake Christmas cookies, buy presents, plan family gatherings, order the Christmas card pictures, send out the pictures, oh yeah that would mean take the pictures as well!  You know how it is, that never-ending list that is either written or constantly running through your mind.  What if this season you did a “do what you can” list.  What would that look like for you? 

1)      Ask yourself why you are doing the things you are doing.  Is it because you think it is expected?  Is it a tradition you enjoy?  Are you trying to make sure you are keeping up with what you think others want you to be doing?  If you are not doing the things that you want to be doing, then evaluate what needs to get taken off of your list. 

2)      Enjoy the holidays, because you deserve it.  Make a list of all the things that you “have” to do and then rate them on a scale of 1-10 on how important they are to you.  Now pick the top three and do them!  If you have time and aren’t stressed, then add the next one.  If you do not send out the Christmas card pictures at Christmas, make New Year’s Cards instead or maybe skip this year.  Whatever you decide to do, know that it is your choice.

3)      If you are able to plan ahead and organize, this can help too.  Organize a budget on what you are spending for each person, a day to shop, a day to wrap presents, etc…  Often times, the more we have planned out, the less stressed and anxious we will find ourselves. 

Don’t forget to take time to recharge as well.  Remember we can only give as much as we have.  It is okay to put all the to-dos on hold and go get a cup of coffee or just take time for yourself.  You deserve it!