The must-read couples’ guide to having a stress free Christmas, filled with more happiness and less pressure by learning how to avoid family fights and other popular mishaps that occur around this season.
The holidays are a time for family bonding, celebration and happiness. There is nothing quite like the magic of Christmas on December 25th but let’s be completely honest, the time leading up to the grand finale can be stressful, anxiety filled and fight ridden if certain key elements are ignored relationship- wise. Avoid the chaos and bickering with your loved ones by following these three super easy tips.
Become planner pals
Organisation or should I say good organisation is instrumental during the holiday period. Not everyone likes the hustle and bustle of last-minute Christmas shopping. How about tonight you sit with your better half and make a list of all the activities you need to get done, inclusive of gifts for friends and family, work events, family events, and of course, some alone time for you both. By setting dates in advance and creating a joint calendar, you can see how much you have to get done and adjust accordingly, lessening tension in the household.
Be budget buddies
It creates an uneasy feeling in relationships especially new ones when both parties are unsure about how much they should spend or are expected to spend on each other. To lessen this anxiety, simply discuss a set budget for the gifts you are getting each other. All couples are different, some even prefer shopping for gifts together and others just can’t do with that element of surprise. Figure out your style of gift giving and it will make for a fun stress-free experience. You can even opt for homemade gifts a year or skip the gift giving all together and use that money for a mini vacation. There are no set rules to these things and the point of Christmas is to feel appreciated, thankful and loved by those around you. Do not let the material aspects get the best of you and dampen your Christmas spirit.
Become forgiveness friends
People strive for perfection especially around the holidays. They want the perfect pictures, the perfect party and even the perfect partner to show off. Relax a little! If he or she spills something or burns the ham or turkey in the oven take a deep breath and find a solution. Life is too short to argue and screw up a holiday that you will never get back—Christmas 2019! Don’t down your partner or belittle them if things don’t always go to plan. At the end of it, all that matters is that you are spending time together and doing your best. Remember not everyone has that luxury at holiday time. There are many people wishing they could be in your position and waking up next to their significant other. There are others who are facing depression because they wish to see family members that may live far away. Reflect on your blessings and complain less this season.
I think Santa would be pretty impressed with you this year if you follow these tips and well, if he doesn’t show gratitude, I can bet your partner will. The key is to never forget what the holidays are really about and keeping your priorities in check even if that means being more selective with your time and focusing less on impressing others. Christmas is a holiday filled with heart, and although it can get hectic at the end of the day its all worth it. Make this a Christmas to remember not one you want to forget because of holiday arguments and stress.