1. First Things First :

The secret to holiday happiness is to start planning NOW. Yes now, while the weather is still good and the yuletide crush has yet to hit the mall.

2. Plan Meals Ahead:

Looking for convenient, fast mealtime solutions? There are plenty of great resources on the Internet, such as the Louis Kemp Seafood recipe database (Dead link removed).

3. Delegate :

You can't do everything. So share the celebration and the joy – and the planning – with family and friends. Don't wait until it is snowy and cold to get the kids untangling the lights and finding the ornaments in storage.

4. Take Care of Your Body:

A person can only cram so many activities into their calendar. Over-commitment and lack of sleep can lead to major stress. Self-care and making sure to get enough sleep are especially important during the holidays.

5. Get a Handle on the HolidayHelpings:

According to a National Institutes of Health study, the weight people gain during the holiday season adds up year after year. Try not to overindulge this year. Allow yourself only a taste of rich foods during holiday parties and try creating healthier versions of holiday favorites with low calorie ingredients or fat-free products.

6. Keep Expectations Realistic:

Slow down, savor the moments and try not to rush so fast through the season that you miss the good stuff. Having a realistic attitude can go a long way toward making holidays less stressful and happier for all.

1. Check it Out:

For starters, make a list of what needs to get done. Set priorities for what needs to be accomplished along with a timeline. This includes menu planning, gift selection, shopping, baking and cooking. Once you've written it down, it will be easier to keep it in mind and get it done.

2. Mark Your Calendar:

Set specific dates and deadlines for what you want done and when. Then stick to your schedule.

3. Spread the HolidayJoy:

Communicate with your family – it's easy to assume that your family knows your plans just because you've mentioned them in passing. Make a point of gathering your family together to talk about family get-togethers and outings, so that everyone is aware of the schedule.

4. Money Matters

Take a close look at your financial situation and create a holiday spending budget. This will help alleviate money woes and overspending, which will help cut down on a common source of holiday stress.

For more personal development guest articles, check the menu to the left.
For personal growth articles by The Happy Guy, check his personal growth library.

NOTE: Phyllis Cambria is co-author of The Complete Idiot's Guide to Planning a Great Party. This article is an adaptation of one she wrote in her role as the holiday spokesperson for the Louis Kemp Seafood Company, and is published with her permission.

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