Every one of us lives busy lives. I have often felt like I was running a hundred miles an hour with my hair on fire! I feel as though I'm juggling 10 balls in the air at the same time. My life is stressful enough, then a holiday is added to it! Christmas programs, parties, shopping, baking! Yikes!

Have you ever felt like I just described? I know most of us have. This is a wonderful time of year when families get together to celebrate the birth of Christ and we turn it into a stress fest! We end up being so stressed out we miss all the fun. Sound familiar?

Here is a little formula I use and it works wonders for me.

N - No is a word I had to learn and use. Saying no to the extra things, people, and stuff that stresses me out. Will anyone notice if it isn't done? 5 years from now will anyone remember I wasn't in charge of it?
O - Organizing what I need to create our Christmas atmosphere. Where the tree, lights, ornaments, paper, etc. are located. I optimize my less stressful weekends during the year to organize my things.

S - Start small. I realized my family doesn't care if I put on a big event. They just want to enjoy me and being together at this time of year.
T - Target my important things. If I know what's important to my family, then I don't have to stress about the unimportant things.
R - Release tension. When I start to feel stress, I take time out for me. I meditate or listen to soothing music. 15 minutes makes a mega difference for me!
E - Escape the stress for a short time. My husband and I get away for a little time spent together. If we are both stressed we become snappish. No fun there!
S - Silliness and laughter. There is nothing which breaks the stressful times better for me than a little laughter!
S - Security within myself. I have realized, everything is fine in my world. My family and friends love me just the way I am!

This is a beautiful time of year. The gorgeous light displays and wonderful songs remind us of how important life really is, just the way it is. Enjoy it! Don't stress. Everything will be fine.