We want to make the holidays special, and there is nothing wrong with that. But that often means a lot of events get added to the schedule. While they are fun, they can add to the stress level.
Here Are 5 Steps To Prepare For Christmas.
You’re bound to get the question, “What are you doing for Christmas?” or “What do you want for Christmas?” from your family and friends. Preparation is more than half the battle in our opinion.
If you know how to be ready for Christmas early, like, well in advance, then by the time the big day rolls around, you will be more chilled than a turkey in January. Here are 5 STEPS TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS.
- ORDER AND WRITE YOUR CHRISTMAS CARDS
Take a family photo now; assemble/update addresses and begin addressing cards.
Decide if you’re going for handmade cards or factory-produced cards then put them in sections such as the cards to be hand delivered, the ones to be delivered with gifts and the ones to be dispatched.
If you’re sending out a lot of cards it may be worth considering getting them professionally printed.
- CREATE A GIFT-BUYING LIST AND A WISHLIST
The very simple way to start is to make a list. Once you have a list, everything is so much more manageable. Think about how much money you’re willing to set aside for each person you want to give a gift.
Having a budget written down now might help you resist the urge to overspend as the holidays get closer. If the budget is an issue, take steps now to avoid uncomfortable situations during the holidays.
Talk to extended family about skipping gifts, giving gifts only to the children, or drawing names and setting a cap on the amount. The wishlist allows people to know what gifts to give you.
- BUDGET AND SHOP AHEAD
Before you even start really thinking about getting ready for Christmas, you need to work out your budget so that you can prepare wisely.
Remember to involve everything you will need, this includes; food and even decorations. Buy your gifts, food stuff and provisions way ahead to avoid the holiday rush.
You don’t want to buy things when they are too expensive, especially with the way prices increase daily. Black Friday sales are still on for some people so catch the last one before the holiday bills roll in.
- START DECLUTTERING
Cluttered space contributes to anxiety and to a lack of focus. On the other hand, a clean, clutter-free space helps lead to a more relaxed and peaceful frame of mind.
You can clean out the refrigerator and pantry well before it’s time to do holiday cooking; non-perishables that you won’t use could be donated to a food pantry, declutter the master bedroom and make it a refuge for you during the busy holiday season.
You can also clean out a closet or space for gifts, wrapping paper, etc., as you buy them. If you have the space for it, you could even set up a gift-wrapping station where you have everything you need at hand to wrap gifts.
- MAKE RESERVATIONS OR PLAN FUN EVENTS FOR THE ACTUAL HOLIDAY
Finally, make a plan for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Now might be a great time to start investigating the options for memory-making family activities during the holiday season.
Who is hosting this year? Where will you be spending your time? If you have a partner, are you with his family or yours? Have this conversation now, so there aren’t any last-minute changes, potential miscommunication, or hurt feelings.
If you plan on travelling, seats on airlines and other transport options fill up during the holidays, as do hotels, so making those reservations now might help you get the seats or rooms you want and maybe at a better price.
