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15 Quick Tips To Navigate Family Time And Holiday Stress

By now, you’ve got to be feeling the buzz of the season. As much as we enjoy this time of year with all the beautiful lights, cute warm clothes, and feel-good music…let’s be real, it can be a rollercoaster of stress, too.

So just in time to save your sanity, here’s a list of 15 Quick Tips To Navigate Family Time And Holiday Stress created to sprinkle a little extra joy and a lot less overwhelm into your holiday hustle.

  1. Plan Ahead
    Start early and jot down what you need to do. It’s like a map for the season—less rushing, more enjoyment.
  2. Set Realistic Expectations
    Embrace the imperfect! Not everything needs to be picture-perfect.
  3. Delegate Like a Pro
    You don’t have to do it all alone! Share tasks with family and friends, making it a team effort.
  4. Practice Gratitude Daily
    Pause and thank Jesus for the things you’re grateful for.
  5. Stick to Your Budget
    Overspending can add unnecessary stress. Set a budget and stick to it. It’s a gift of peace of mind.
  6. Learn to Say No
    It’s okay not to attend every event or take on every task. Your well-being matters!
  7. Stay Active
    Whether it’s a brisk walk or a yoga session, move your body. This helps clear your mind.
  8. Indulge Responsibly
    Treat yourself to the season’s goodies, but moderation is key. Too many sweets spike stress levels (and unwanted pounds).
  9. Create Quiet Time Each Day
    Find moments to be alone, even if it’s just for a few minutes. It recharges your batteries.
  10. Laugh A Lot
    Laughter truly is the best medicine.
  11. Sleep Matters
    Don’t skimp on sleep! You know how you feel and act when you’re tired.
  12. Practice Mindfulness
    Be present in the moment. Enjoy conversations and the beauty of the season.
  13. Utilize Tech Wisely
    Unplug occasionally. Social media breaks can do wonders for your mental well-being.
  14. Flexibility Is Key
    Plans may change, and that’s okay. Embrace the spontaneity of the season.
  15. Pray, Pray, Pray
    How about this for a promise… Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Now, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and let’s sleigh this holiday stress together! You’re unstoppable! Merry Christmas, Reduced-stress Warrior!

Dive a little deeper by watching this podcast episode, “Navigating Family Time And Holiday Stress | Part 3 of 3”

Author

  • Chris Reed | Pastor to Parents | Saddleback Church

    Chris married his beautiful bride, Tina, in 1990. They have three wonderful adult children, Jacob, Kaylee, and Macie Joy. Chris began pastoring at a church in Los Angeles in 1995 where he was the Children’s and Student Pastor. He was the Executive Pastor of Student Ministries at John Maxwell's church in South Florida before he came to Saddleback in 2008 as our Pastor to 20s/30s. He has since served as Pastor to Singles and Pastor to Marriages. He is currently our Pastor to Parents leading the charge for all things Parents Ministry at Saddleback. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biblical Studies and his Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership.

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