How to Deal with End of Year Holiday Stress

Think about how to make your life simpler on the home front.

1. Get that shopping out of the way early. Make a list of everyone in your life, check it twice and buy in the fewest trips to the store. Shop locally, if possible, at a deserving business and tell them what you are looking for when you walk through the door—or give them a call ahead.

2. Share the burden of managing the holiday cooking and events calendar, by delegating to kids, partners, spouses, and friends. Other people can and do cook well, and they’re happy to contribute.

3. Give yourself permission to RSVP “NO.”  Staying home or prioritizing other tasks before social events nets you peace of mind, but it can take practice to deny FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) any real estate in your mind.