Be more realistic about holiday expectations -both yours and the ones other may have of you. Who's expectations are you trying to meet and why?
Give yourself and others a break. Don't be overly critical if things don't go as planned.
The holidays may be a magical time of the year, but don't expect the holidays to solve your personal or family problems.
Manage your time wisely. Let others know what you can and can't do. Don't say "yes" when it is better for you to say "no".
Create a master to do list. Write down everything that needs to be bought, made, baked, sent, done, etc. Now pare down the list. What can you cut out or scale down.
Be reasonable about what you can accomplish and limit holiday baking, decorating, and gift giving as necessary.
Maintain your health. Watch what you eat and drink, get enough sleep, and make time to exercise.
Money worries can also add to the stress of the Holiday Season. Shop within your budget and plan in advance when, how, and where you will shop.
Delegate tasks to other family members. Involve your spouse and children in holiday tasks and preparations.
Carefully choose the events you will attend so that they will bring the most to your celebration of the holidays. Focus on what the true meaning of the holiday is -- for you.
Celebrate each event along the way and not just "the day". Take joy in decorating the tree or baking cookies.
Make time for yourself to replinish your energy. Have a long soak in the tub or indulge in a cup of your favorite hot drink.
If separated from family and friends, or hae suffered the loss of a loved one, acknowledge your feelings of grief and allow yourself to express these normal feelings.