Letitia Williams » Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas Season

The Christmas season is often considered one of the most joyful times of the year—and for good reason. Research shows that people generally report feeling happier during the holidays. If you love everything about Christmas, you know how uplifting it can be when the season finally arrives. However, while many experience the joy and excitement of the holidays, others find this time of year stressful. To help you navigate the season with less stress and more wellbeing, here are some tips to consider.

What Comes to Mind When You Think of Christmas?

For many, Christmas conjures up images of family gatherings, sun-drenched summer holidays (especially in South Africa), and lazy days at the beach. It's also a time for festive traditions, like decorating the house and, of course, the Christmas tree. Planning and enjoying a special Christmas meal is a highlight for many, and the holiday shopping—purchasing and receiving gifts—adds to the excitement. Christmas is also a time for giving back, with many of us reflecting on the less fortunate and making efforts to help others during this season.

Yet, while we engage in various holiday activities, not all of them enhance our sense of happiness and wellbeing. If your goal is to feel more fulfilled and less stressed during Christmas, it's entirely possible.

What Affects Our Wellbeing During the Holiday Season?

Research shows that people with life goals centered on relationships and community tend to be happier, whereas those who focus on materialism—money, possessions, and status—experience less happiness. This insight applies to the Christmas season as well. The popular saying, "remember the reason for the season," carries significant truth. By focusing on what truly matters—relationships, spirituality, and meaningful connections—you can increase your sense of joy during the holidays.

On the flip side, the pressures of overspending on gifts, possibly going into debt, and even the well-meaning act of giving to charity can introduce additional stress. Interestingly, receiving expensive gifts can sometimes trigger negative feelings, as they may come with unintended pressures or expectations. These are examples of how materialism, while beneficial to the economy, can detract from our overall wellbeing during the holiday season.

Tips for a Less Stressful, More Fulfilling Christmas:

Prioritise Family and Spiritual ActivitiesFocus on spending quality time with loved ones and engaging in religious or spiritual traditions that are meaningful to you.
Shift the Focus Away from MaterialismInstead of placing importance on gifts, consider making Christmas less about exchanging presents. Encourage family members to agree on reasonable spending limits to reduce financial pressure.
Set a Realistic BudgetEstablish a sensible budget for all holiday-related expenses, and stick to it to avoid post-holiday financial stress.
Give What You CanWhile giving to charity is commendable, only contribute what you can comfortably afford. Consider spreading your charitable donations throughout the year to lessen the financial strain during the holiday season.
Be Intentional with Your ShoppingReduce time spent in busy malls by planning your purchases in advance. Knowing what you need and why you're there will help you shop more efficiently and minimise stress.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy a more relaxed, meaningful holiday season that aligns with your values. To help you navigate this season peacefully, here’s a free download: The Ultimate Holiday Planner

ReferenceKasser, T., & Sheldon, K. M. (2002). What makes for a merry Christmas? Journal of Happiness Studies, 3(4), 313-329.