Controlling Christmas Chaos!

Well the last day before the official month of madness begins.....

This time of year traditionally is for winding down to some time off work, relaxing, holidays, so why does it feel like it is Winding UP?

Everything seems to go into overdrive - social activities, spending money, family encounters, birthdays, anniversaries, decorations, clutter, mail, sticky tape, traffic, humidity, time at shops, kids needs, full car parks, stress levels, the list goes on and you still haven't finished work yet.

If you're like me, I love love love Christmas but at times wish I was an ostrige and could stick my head in the sand and sheepishly return when the hustle was all over. 

It's easy to start feeling out of control, stressed even panicked about all the 'things' you 'have' to do.

Well it's time to get in control of Christmas Chaos, for one thing is for sure it will be here again next year.

So how do we regain and maintain control and calm this holiday season, here are some tips:

1. Remind yourself of things you love about Christmas (carols, parties, kids enjoyment, happiness);
2. Write a list of all the things you HAVE to do;
3. Next to your list write a W for Want and N for Need against each thing;
4. Now write next to each thing the date you want it completed by and who's going to do it;
5. Prioritise the list into the things you like to do or are easiest and work through it; and
6. Keep the things that you love about Christmas and holidays in the forefront of your mind and around you.

Christmas is time of increased responsibility, tasks, grief, stress from family etc but it is also a time of increased social gatherings giving opportunities to share time with those you care about, gifts both giving and receiving, organising and enjoying children's wonder and excitement, times to relax and take a break from work, take part in activities that bring you joy, connect and/or reflect with the religious meaning of Christmas.

I wish you all a time of reality with lots of joy and a little stress, but the awareness to know that you are in control of everything you partake in and therefore make the most it.

Wyomie