Staying sane this Christmas
HERE are some tips to surviving the family Christmas madness with your sanity intact.
Focus on what’s most important
No time to write Xmas cards and feeling anxious every time one drops on the mat. Ask yourself which are the 10 most important ones — maybe your old aunt who has not managed to master email? Try sending messages on social media or announce a donation to charity. Without a doubt your friends will be grateful you are soothing their own guilt.
Drop high-stress rituals
If you have over-planned but struggling to deliver, make a switch. True, families thrive on traditions, but it is less about the event itself, which your kids may have outgrown and more about time together. Drop expensive, high-stress rituals in favour of something simple. Or just the ones they really love.
Be satisfied with “good enough”
Ask, “If I don’t do this, what will happen?”. Do not always go for bigger and better. Does the tree have to be hand-picked from an enchanted forest? Will it ruin Xmas day if you have not got seven types of veg? Think back to the most magic memories you had as a child and they will likely be based on more simple rituals.
Remember to have fun
Give yourself permission to reclaim a bit of festive fun and let go a little. At the same time as you are planning your party dress, do not forget to make sure you have childcare plans in place.
Love your lists
Getting things down on paper can really help you stay sane in the silly season. With everything on your plate it is easy to buy a gift twice or miss someone off your list.
Delegate
You cannot do everything so divide chores between you and family. If you have visitors, they can also share the burden. This will help you organise everything yet remaining at the top of the game.
Hold on to everyday routines
If the kids need down time or you like to read for half an hour before bed, do not give that up in favour of yet another Christmas chore. If escaping on a date night with your husband keeps you sane . . . keep it that way. Our everyday practices help calm and centre us.
Cut the gift list
Rein in gift exchanges that have been outgrown or lost their meaning. Limit gifts to children only or organise a secret Santa for the wider family or friendship groups.
Limit travel if you can
No one likes long car journeys. If you have to see both yours and your partner’s families and a plethora of relatives to boot, why not arrange to see one set a few weeks before/after Christmas. It is really difficult for children to maintain first rate behaviour when doing the rounds of friends and relatives.
Don’t be afraid to say no
Relax by looking at what you can and cannot do. Instead of having pre-Christmas drinks with every group of friends and work colleagues, how about pushing some back to the New Year? This gives you a little pick me up when the Christmas cheer has faded. —Wires.