Bottom-line
Some major causes of problems during the holidays
And Helpful suggestions to get past holiday stress

  • The loss of a loved one is especially hard during the holidays—someone you knew that was killed, a family member died, or you ended a very important relationship.
    • Suggestions
      • Seek loving family members and friends to do something special with or for.
      • Find ways to do something special for someone who is less fortunate than you are.
      • It’s OK to grieve about a loved one during the holidays. This is your private time; don’t let anyone make you feel guilty.  Seek professional help if needed.
      • If a friend or relative is hurting, be by their side to show love, support, and comfort.
  • Misunderstandings can always be a problem during the holidays, especially among in-laws, parents, children, and other relatives who might expect too much during this time. Gift buying can be a chief misunderstanding.
    • Suggestions
      • Have a family meeting before the holidays.
      • Ask each family member to share some of the responsibilities.
      • Don’t burden yourself with giving gifts to all of your family members—it’s not financially smart.
      • If things go wrong, it’s not the end of the world. You will survive
      • Accept people for who they are. We are all different, and so are our options. 
      • Learn to compromise.
  • The lack of funds because of financial difficulties is always a problem during the holidays.
    • Suggestions
      • Don’t worry about spending money you don’t have. Overspending for gifts will only add to your financial difficulties. Stay within your budget. If you don’t have it, don’t spend it.
      • Don’t over use your credit cards. Set limits to your holiday spending, and don’t exceed that amount.  It’s OK to say to your friends, relatives and, co-worker no gift this year.
      • A good way to give without spending money is to make a gift certificate with something you will do for that person before the end of the New Year.  Examples: clean their house, wash their car, help them with filing, etc—be creative.
      • Find holiday activities that are free

     

    Advertisements