Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year! But for a lot of people, it can be a triggering and stressful time.

Even though it falls on the SAME day every year, it still seems to take people from surprise.

For me, Christmas has definitely become more enjoyable in my adult life, specifically since I had my own kids.

But there has also been some eye-opening experiences over the years that have completely changed how I see Christmas, and I wanted to share…

It’s All Mindset

How you actually think about Christmas is a huge part of how much you will enjoy the holiday season.

For me, it is all about spending time with friends and family. Doing the things I enjoy and not taking it all too serious.

When I was younger I worked in a bank, and in that time I would see people become too stressed and burdened. Going into debt, just to fund presents and extravagant Christmas parties with people they don’t even like.

You should never feel obligated or obliged to do or buy anything.

Spend your time with the ones you truly want to and spend your money (or don’t) within reason. I don’t believe in gifting for the sake of it.

That being said, I LOVE buying gifts for people.

Make A Plan

Now with all that in mind, it’s time to make a plan.

Work out what you are doing, where you will be and who you will be with. Create lists and budgets and stick to them.

I have linked my Christmas Gift Budget Spreadsheet below, which you can input everyone and their gifts and tick off accordingly and stay within budget.

Don’t forget to account for the time needed to prep and wrap things. Pencil in things you might need to shop for.

Get It Done Early

One of the biggest keys to a stress-free Christmas is getting everything done as early as possible, so the closer to December you get, the more you can just enjoy the time with friends and family.

I start my shopping and lists as early as June and take advantage of EOFY sales. Also do a LOT of shopping online, but this is high risk close to Christmas, so again GET IT DONE EARLY.

I have created a comprehensive list you can use to check off over the three months before Christmas. So you can be super organised and not forget a single thing.

Ask For Help

In any aspect of life, you should never be afraid to ask for help. But Christmas is absolutely one of them.

Even if you have specific traditions, if you’re struggling, don’t have time or perhaps cannot afford, then don’t be afraid to let people know.

Those nearest and dearest to you will understand, and anyone who doesn’t isn’t worth your time.

Ask people to contribute, make things, organise things – whatever it might be!

Christmas is a time of giving, and that includes love and understanding.

Have Fun

I mean this is what it’s all about.

Worry less about how things look or impressing people and focus on the stuff that will really bring you joy.

Watch Christmas movies, wear matching Xmas pyjamas, blast Buble and Mariah, play games with the kids and enjoy the moment.