'Tis the Season to Be ... Stressed?

Does the holiday season stress you out?

Stop stress before it gets out of control!

**Share your work with your friends and family -- get those 'must do' tasks done faster, and spend more time with the people you care most about
-Make cleaning and decorating the house a family affair
-Go Christmas shopping with friends
-Throw a joint party with friends instead of each of you planning your own

**Stick to your routine -- this applies to all ages!
-Eat regular meals (not just snacks)
-Get enough sleep (and make sure the kids get their naps)
-Exercise - even just a few minutes makes a difference
-Make time for yourself

**Make a plan -- and schedule in some flexibility
-Make shopping lists
-Plan times to shop, cook, clean, and wrap and deliver gifts
-Decide what your top priorities are and schedule them first; fit in others as time permits
-Expect delays when you (or others) travel

**Don't overschedule yourself or your family

**Take a break when you're feeling overwhelemed, irritable, tense, stressed out, or unhappy

Who knows, you just might enjoy the holidays more this year!

You can find these and other great tips just by searching the web. My sources include Mayo Clinic, Navy safety center, and fun.familyeducation.com.