Do less — not more — during the holidays

“If only I had a few more hours or days, I could get it all done.” While this might be how you feel, it’s essential to ask yourself what the cost could be to get those extra hours. Prioritize rest and sleep, and don’t let self-care go by the wayside to avoid feeling that extra seasonal stress.

When you set your gift-giving bar too high — you’re likely to spend far too much on gifts. And if you charge those gifts on credit cards, you may find yourself stressed beyond the holidays as you try to pay off debt. Setting and following a budget can help with the pressure to spend, spend, spend.

Are you overwhelmed by your holiday shopping list? Gifts don’t always have to be bought. Save yourself a trip to the shops. Writing a heartfelt card or offering to help someone with a project or childcare can mean just as much, if not more, than a store-bought item.

If your calendar is overflowing with engagements and obligations, it’s OK to occasionally say no. There’s no need to attend every event or to host the neighborhood holiday party. If planning, attending and entertaining feel overwhelming, give yourself an out. Other times of the year are less hectic, offering more time to socialize — and, often, a more enjoyable experience.

Holidays can be difficult for families, especially if a loved one chooses not to participate in a family event or a conflict-heavy conversation. Everyone must decide what they will join in on based on what is best for them and their mental health. It’s OK to say no — you are not responsible for other people's happiness. Learning to set clear boundaries will free you of the stress of trying to please others and can help you maintain healthy relationships.

Seeing all the decorations in stores and around the neighborhood can be inspiring. But your own decorations can be simple. Use what you have, and if you need to buy decorations, consider looking at resale shops for cost-friendly items. Just remember, what goes up must come down and be stored away.

“What’s one more cocktail or slice of cake?” you may ask. Well, the adverse outcomes from overeating and drinking usually far outweigh the benefits, especially in January when you may try to reach a healthy weight or address the health risks of having too much sugar and alcohol. Make the holidays a time to celebrate without having food or alcohol as the focus. Your gut and brain will thank you for it.

Just discussing the holidays can cause some people to worry and even lose sleep. When you find yourself worrying, ask yourself, “Is this something I have control over?” If so, list what you can do about it and take action. If not, accept it and let go. Practice mindfulness — fully focusing on your breath, sensations or activities — daily or whenever you feel it’s necessary to boost your mental health and well-being.