- Plan Ahead – This might seem obvious but writing lists and scribbling on post-it notes will help you keep track of what needs to be done and when.
- Wrap as you go – Get into a routine of wrapping gifts on the same day as you buy them. By doing this, you’ll avoid feeling completely overwhelmed by the pile of unwrapped presents on Christmas Eve!
- Take Time Out – You don’t have to attend every single social event. Take a night off to spend alone or just with close family.
- Power Up – Stockpile a supply of batteries for those youngsters receiving presents where batteries are not included. Tears and tantrums avoided.
- Keep Receipts – Remember to keep receipts for all your gift purchases. Many shops offer gift receipts. Include these when wrapping your presents and keep all other receipts in one safe place.
- Online Groceries – If you’re pressed for time or you just can’t cope with the idea of the queues and crowds, why not do the bulk of your food shopping online and have it delivered to your door?
- Set a Budget – It’s easy to get carried away with Christmas shopping. Set a budget and stick to it.
- One I Prepared Earlier – If you can, get your food preparation done in advance. This will alleviate the pressure and will mean you can spend Christmas being social and not flapping about in a hot kitchen.
- Give Them a Job – Don’t try to be a hero. If you have guests for Christmas dinner get them to pitch in. Switch on the radio, don some aprons and set them to work on the spuds.
- Be Real – Remember, it’s Christmas, not the end of the world. It’ll be back again next year.
Filed under: Christmas
Tuesday, December 20th, 2011 at 5:37 pm
