Christmas Stress Survival Kit

The holiday season is upon us — the cash tills are ringing — the car parks are chocka — the shops are heaving — and stress levels are rising.

For all the perfectionists out there this time of year can be a real nightmare as The Need To Do Things Perfectly swings into overdrive. Advertising induces huge pressure to roll out the perfect Christmas: perfect gifts — perfect parties — how to cook the perfect turkey ... and so on. We put impossibly high expectations on ourselves and end up being unable to enjoy the celebrations.

So here are a few ideas to help ease the stress and allow you some space to enjoy the festive season.

DELEGATE/ASK FOR HELP: If the majority of the work falls on your shoulders please don't suffer alone. If you do you'll have an exhausting Christmas and probably end up feeling resentful. Ask for help from those around you — partner, children, family, friends. Preparing food or writing cards together feels very festive and will significantly ease the burden on you.

BEWARE "SHOULDS": Christmas is full of ‘shoulds’. Be aware of the number of times you use this word. It usually implies that you're about to embark on something you don't really want to do — but feel you ought to. In other words, the impetus is stemming from external expectations. The antidote is simply to supplant the word should with could. This instantly reintroduces the element of choice. You DON'T have to brave the crowds to buy just one more gift ... you could, but you might choose not to...

TEMPER EXPECTATIONS … of others and, more importantly, of yourself. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Please let go of the need to be perfect. If the turkey is a bit overcooked, or the Christmas tree lights go on the blink, or someone isn't overjoyed with the gift you've bought them - how important is that in the great scheme of things?

And finally … don't forget to get out and do some exercise over the Christmas period. We all eat and drink more than usual, so getting out for a walk and some fresh air always feels great and does you good.

Wishing you a happy, festive and stress-free Holiday Season.