Having holiday cheer is always one of your holiday priorities, but how many times does the stress of the season leave you feeling than “in the spirit?”

 

Rather than stressing about all the things you have to do, spend time this holiday season doing things you care about with people you love (and still get things done!)

 

Here are some of our best tips for juggling family, friends and school with your holiday priorities.

 

Set Priorities.

Do your best to remain focused on your end goals. Make a list of what matters most to you (family, travel, earning a 4.0 GPA, health & fitness) and keep it handy when you have to choose whether or not to add another holiday cocktail party to your holiday priorities agenda. 

 

Ask For Help.

The American Psychological Association noted in a poll that 25% of Americans reported being “extremely stressed” during the holidays. 69% of those participants noted a “lack of time” as being the culprit. Help curb stress by asking for help when you need it. Stressing over hosting the annual holiday party? Ask a friend or two to help decorate or bring food. Struggling with your workload? Ask a coworker to help cover some of your projects. Make your mental health one of your holiday priorities by asking for help when you need it.

 

Be Proactive.

Life’s full of craziness (like unexpected overnight guests), but when it comes to things like deadlines, appointments, and expectations, think ahead. Don’t let small things turn into big, scary stuff due to procrastination.

 

Get Enough Sleep.

“Easier said than done,” you might think. When there’s family, friends, and plenty of eggnog involved, it’s easy to start feeling like you’re running on empty by the time real life strikes. Make rest one of your holiday priorities by setting a bedtime for yourself and sticking to it.

 

Be Ok Saying No.

For some, this is one of the hardest holiday priorities to put into practice. When another coworker or friend invites you for a White Elephant, don’t feel the need to say “yes” right away. Take a moment to consider if you have the time, the energy, and the funds to attend. If the answer is “no,” you can say it. Try “oh man, I already have something planned!” If you’d rather be more honest, say “I can’t make it.” No hurt feelings for them, no anxiety for you.

 

Leave Yourself Room for Error.

No one’s perfect. No matter how much you plan, things can always get a little wild during the holidays. Cut yourself some slack and self-care one of your holiday priorities. Even just a few hours a week can make all the difference to your sanity. Try to be fully present in your moments to recharge (AKA Netflix bingeing doesn’t count.) Get lost instead in an activity that promotes full presence, like doing a crossword puzzle, taking a walk, or cooking a healthy, delicious meal.

 

Make time for others and take care of yourself with these tips! To learn even more about holiday priorities from other Divas like you, join the Back to School Divas Facebook group!