How to Avoid Holiday Stress

I know it's SO easy to get caught up in the presents, what color your Christmas tree decor will be this year, how to spend time with your family without offending anyone... it can be a very stressful time of year!

This year, I'm being forced to slow down because of the birth of my child. But, it's making me appreciate and enjoy the holidays more!

So how can you enjoy the holidays more?

1. Spend more time with Jesus. Whether it's an extra 5 minutes of devotional time, praying before bed or right when you get up, or reading the Christmas story as a family...keep Him in the center!

2. Don't be afraid to say no! You aren't a failure for not being able to be everywhere at once. Maybe this year you only go to certain events, or only participate in certain activities.

3. Give back! Often times for me, when I focus on someone other than myself, I start to feel less overwhelmed.

4. Remember to choose joy! "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones." - Proverbs 17:22

And I'd love to hear your suggestions! What are ways that you're planning on making the holidays more fun?