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With the holidays fast approaching, some of us start to experience some anxiety at just the thought of navigating all the parties and family gatherings that you plan to attend between Thanksgiving and New Years. My boyfriend and I are both from the same hometown so the holidays are a little more contained than most experience. I can’t imagine what it would be like to navigate two familes in two different cities. After five years of dating, I have figured out how to make the holidays a little less stressful and I hope my tips will help keep you calm for the next couple weeks of food, presents, and decorations.
First of all, I find that if I set realistic expectations for others of when we will be getting into town, who we are visiting and when we will be heading home, everyone knows what to expect. Don’t be afraid to lay down the law and stick to what you have planned. Nothing is worse then your Aunt springing a family dinner on you at the last minute when you have almost every minute of your three day stay planned.
Second, between all the visits with his family, your family, and friends, don’t forget to take some time doing what you want to do. My boyfriend and I like to visit our favorite brewery back home, just the two of us, to grab a pint of our favorite beer. I use to get so stressed out visiting family and friends in my hometown when it wasn’t even a holiday because we were always expected to be somewhere visiting someone, and if we didn’t spend enough time with someone we would get a guilt trip. It took me almost five years to realize that this was my hometown too so if I was going to spend my weekend there I might as well relax and enjoy it.
Third, if your schedule allows, get to back reality and your own house early enough so that you have some time to relax before you go back to work or school. Nothing is worse than rushing home from somewhere only to go directly to bed with unpacked bags and household obligations keeping you awake. Giving myself a chance to unwind from a busy weekend and feel rejuvenated to start a new work week has really helped relive my traveling woes.
Whether you are single, newly dating, or part of a committed relationship, I’m sure you’ve felt stressed attempting to see everyone over the holidays. If having a schedule planned out is not your style then do what works for you, but remember that while seeing friends and family is a priority, maintaining your sanity over the holiday is just as important.
What other tips do you have for remaining stress free througout the holidays?
Here are some related articles from TML:
The Secret to Enjoying the Holidays
The 12 Relatives of Christmas (and What to Get Them)
