If the thought of upcoming holidays fill you with dread, you’re not alone...

Many people get stretched pretty thin this time of year by money and social obligations. Here are some ways to keep your sleigh on track this season.

Lighten your cooking duties. It’s perfectly acceptable to cook a main course and ask dinner guests to bring a side.

17. Get on the same page with family. Come to a consensus on what activities are most important and cut out the extras that add work and scheduling pressure.

18. Recruit a child wrangler. Kids underfoot can add to the stress of big events. Designate one adult to organize games and fun activities in a confined space.

19. Avoid isolation. The holidays can be a depressing time for those who’ve lost loved ones. Get out of the house whenever possible and reconnect with old friends.

20. Help someone who needs you. Nothing melts away personal troubles like helping someone else overcome theirs.

21. Pass down wisdom and tradition. Instead of mourning the passing of better times, keep those memories alive by sharing them with the next generation.

22. Review your life priorities. Combat your hectic schedule by reassessing what matters the most to you.

23. Forgive someone. Let go of past resentments to make room for future happiness.

24. Make a gratitude list. Review it whenever you’re feeling depressed, anxious, depressed or stressed out.

25. Take a time out. Indulge in things you stopped doing because you “just don’t have time for anymore” like a long lunch or a night out with friends.

Next Week’s Tip: New Year’s Tips

Call Solutions EAP at 1-800-526-3485 for assistance for all of life's challenges.
It’s free, confidential and open to your family members.
Check us out on-line at
http://www.solutions-eap.com
George "Bud" Wassell, MS, LPC, CEAP
Director, Solutions EAP
883 Paddock Avenue - Suite 2
Meriden, CT 06450
1-800-526-3485
fax: 203-379-2048
www.solutions-eap.com