As the holiday season approaches, we'd like to feel excited and joyful. But for many women, the holidays are a source of stress and overwhelm. Between the pressure to create the perfect celebration, the demands of gift-giving, and the expectation to maintain a cheerful demeanor, it's easy to get overwhelmed. If you're feeling the weight of Christmas stress, here are our top 7 tips to help you manage it:

It's okay to let go of the idea of a "perfect" holiday. Focus on what truly matters to you and let go of the rest. It's easy to get caught up in the idea of the perfect holiday, but let's be real, that doesn't exist. Instead of stressing about everything being just so, focus on what truly matters to you and let go of the rest. It'll make the whole experience a lot more enjoyable.

Make a list of all the tasks you need to complete and prioritize them. This will help you  organize and keep everything in control. Which does wonders for reducing stress. Make a list of all the tasks you need to complete, estimate the time they will take and put them in an order. That way, you can see what things you will actually be able to accomplish, tackle the most important stuff first, and not feel overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list you don't even want to start on.

Don't be afraid to ask for help or delegate tasks to others. This will lighten your workload and allow you to focus on what's most important to you. Asking for help or delegating tasks to others is not a sign of weakness. It's a smart way to get weight off your shoulders and allow you to focus on what's most important to you. It's also an opportunity to connect, or for your man to feel needed and appreciated by you. Not sure how to do this? Then check out our article, to also see the effect the "damsel in distress"-signal can have on a man.

It's okay to say no to invitations or events that you don't have the time or energy for. It's better to do a few things well, than to spread yourself too thin (just like with buttercream). Trust me, your sanity will thank you.

Make sure to schedule in some downtime for yourself. Whether it's taking a long walk, reading a book, or watching a movie, whatever suits you best. You need to recharge to become more relaxed. And if you plan them in just like a Christmas dinner, everyone will be prepared and can take their own time off.

It's important to set boundaries with your time and energy during the holidays. Don't be afraid to say no to requests that drain you or that don't align with your priorities. Also don't hesitate to reach out to friends or family for support. An open talk about your feelings can help you feel better and find solutions to your stress. You don't have to go through it alone, an honest talk can go a long way.

Take a moment to focus on the things you are grateful for. It can be easy to get caught up in the negative during the holiday season, but it would be a pity. Instead shifting your perspective to what you are grateful for, can do wonders for reducing stress and put things back in the good light.

The holiday season can be a wonderful time of joy and celebration, but it's important to remember to take care of yourself. By setting realistic expectations, planning ahead, and practicing self-care, you can reduce your stress and fully enjoy the season. Remember - delegate tasks, set boundaries, and seek support when you need it and with gratitude you will be able to rediscover joy in things. It's okay to take a break from the hustle and bustle and prioritize your own well-being. Above all, remember that the holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, so don't let stress ruin it for you. Take good care of yourself and you will well be able to enjoy the season!