Photo courtesy of Nina Matthews Photography - Flickr.com
Ask for what you need. Pronounce the Christmas meal potluck and don't feel guilty about it. If they insist, let your family help with the dishes after the holiday dinner. Accept your friend's offer to bring an appetizer - or even the main course - to the New Year's Eve party. Everyone will be glad to play a more active role and you'll have more time and energy to participate in the festivities.
Give yourself a break. Arrange for your out of town guests to stay in a hotel - it actually may be a relief for all of you, and the beginning of a welcome new holiday tradition. Instead of worrying about all the desserts you've consumed, use that energy to take a brisk walk in the park. Or pay off some debt rather than taking the family on an expensive outing; they will understand and grow from the experience.
Find emotional support. Are you facing the challenges of college kids coming home, integrating new in-laws into the family, caring for the growing needs of your parents or all of the above? Take a deep breath and call a friend. Share your feelings about what's going on in your family. Relish in getting it off your chest, some positive feedback, a different perspective or a good laugh.
Take, for yourself, a stress-free voucher and relax into the idea of some peace of mind. You don't have to deal with the mall mob scene or the frustration of product recalls. This season give the gift of time to your family members. It's a present that will let others know how much you care and it's sure to fit. For that special someone who has everything or those on your list who are hard-to-buy-for, it's the perfect gift idea. And ask others to do the same for you.
