A father and daughter in warm winter coats, with fur hoods, are in a snow covered forest. The father is holding the daughter in his arms, while she boops him on the nose. They are both laughing.

The holiday season is a busy time of year—there’s so much to plan, attend and do. While it can be fun, it’s common to feel overwhelmed, anxious and stressed. Don’t fret, we have a few tips to help you not only survive this holiday season, but make it the best one yet.

A circular blue and white icon of a wallet with the corner of a piece of paper money poking out of the top. The wallet is encircled by a blue, dashed border

Spend, spend, spend (or don’t)

The holiday season can mean a lot of spending. Not just on gifts, but on a new outfit for your holiday party or food and drinks for the guests you host over the next few weeks.

To help curb your spending, make a list and then check it twice. This will help you stick to your budget and not overspend.

Do yourself a favour and calculate how much you’re actually spending. You may notice a big difference between what you think you spend and what you actually spend.

Keep your credit card in your wallet. We know, we know, you want to spoil your kids or treat that special someone, but this shouldn’t come at the expense of your credit score. Sticking to cash or debit will help you ensure you’re only spending the money you already have.

A circular blue and white icon of a head as seen from the side, with a lotus flower where the brain is. The head is encircled by a blue dashed line.

Skip the stress

With all the parties, get-togethers and endless to-do lists added to your already busy schedule, it’s easy to overlook your own self care. Don’t!

Make another list. Planning ahead and prioritizing will help you decide what’s most important. Creating a list of things you need to remember to do, or complete, will help you keep the anxiety away.

Stay positive. Shifting any problem into an opportunity is a great way to feel more in control.

Don’t forget to breath. Take a moment to enjoy yourself this holiday season. When you concentrate on the simple act of inhaling and exhaling, your brain switches from stressed to relaxed.

A circular blue and white icon of a cartoon person with their arms up by their head. There are stress lines coming off the top of the head. The person is encircled by a blue dashed line.

Stay well

Don’t be so busy that you forget to pay attention to your body’s needs.

Fight the flu by getting a flu shot, regularly washing your hands and staying home when you’re sick.
You’ll be doing yourself and everyone else a favour.

Exercise. Even 20 minutes a day can help your body release endorphins that can combat stress and fatigue.

With all the additional treats available in your office or at home, don’t forget to watch what you eat and drink. We’re not saying don’t indulge. Just do so in moderation.

We hope you enjoy your time with your family and friends. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have a more happy and enjoyable holiday season. Cheers!

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