holiday stressWe all love the holidays—the cheer, food, family, and fun—but it’s also the most stressful time of the year. Between shopping, holiday parties, cooking, and decorating, it feels like there’s never enough time to get everything done, so we sacrifice sleep and relaxation to deal with mounting pressures and expectations. This holiday season, recharge by taking some time to refocus on yourself.

Focus on what matters most to you.

If you try to do everything, you’re going to get burned out. Instead, ask yourself this question: what matters the most to you? Now figure out how much energy you have to devote to everything and focus on which of those obligations actually matter and which are just that—obligations. Once you change your “to-do” list into a “want-to” list, you’ll feel more focused and energized.

Balance expectations with your own needs.

When we focus on others’ expectations of us, and even our own expectations of ourselves, we can lose sight of what’s really important about the holidays. Is it really necessary to bake six batches of cookies or hand-wrap every gift? Are there any shortcuts you can take to make the obligations easier and allow you to focus on what you really need, rather than simply what is expected of you.

Prioritize the people you truly care about.

The holidays are for spending time with loved ones and showing appreciation for those who have been an important part of our lives over the past year. Give gifts in a way that brings joy rather than merely satisfying an obligation, and focus on the positive energy of gratitude.

While you may still have a lot to do this holiday season, don’t forget to practice the three R’s: rest, relaxation, and reflection. According to the Mayo Clinic, practicing relaxation helps lower heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, leading to confidence and better health!