While the holidays are a time for cheer and spending time with family, many also experience heightened levels of stress. With all that has happened this year, you may find yourself more overwhelmed than usual as the holidays approach.

However, there are things, even in these unsettling times, you can do to help reduce your stress during the holidays. Below are some tips to help you get through the holidays as stress-free as possible.

1. Ask people to pitch in when you host holiday events. Instead of providing all the food yourself, ask others to prepare and bring a dish to help out. If you have guests that don’t cook, consider asking them to bring paper plates, napkins, plastic utensils, etc. to aid in the cleanup.

2. Draw names rather than purchasing gifts for everyone. Not only does this take the financial pressure off your budget, but it may also be a relief for friends and family. Alternatively, you could suggest homemade gifts instead. The goal is to reduce the financial burden for all parties involved.

3. Consider gently used gifts for children. Local swap and shops, consignment shops, Facebook groups, etc. are great resources. The same holds true for children’s clothing, especially small children who are constantly outgrowing their clothing.

4. Avoid racking up credit card debt to get through the holidays. Instead of relying on credit cards, consider taking out a personal loan from the credit union. The interest rates on personal loans are generally much lower than credit card interest rates, and you have set repayment terms (this means you’ll know exactly when the debt will be paid in full, unlike credit cards).

5. Skip costly events and opt for free entertainment this holiday season. Many cities host wonderful light displays for the entire family that are either completely free or ask for a modest donation. Plus, there are likely to be even more free options to help get you in the holiday spirit with everything going on this year. Local community papers and websites are great starting points for making holiday plans. And don’t forget to bring along some cocoa and play your favorite carols while driving around and taking in the holiday lights. 

One of the most important things to remember about the 2022 holiday season is that you’re not alone. So many people across the country and around the world are experiencing similar financial strains and personal worries. Rather than embracing your inner “humbug”, act early to reduce stress by implementing the tips above to remove some of the common financial pressures from your holiday plate.

We’re Here to Help!

One of the best ways to prevent holiday stress is to plan and act early. Whether you’re looking for a personal loan to stay within budget and avoid high-interest credit cards or you want to refinance loans to lower your monthly payments, we’re here to help.

Your Turn

How do you make the holiday season less stressful? Share your tips in the comments!