This last week-end on my way to a hold an Open House for my listing at 5095 Territorial Drive as part of a Tour of Homes of West Linn, I was a bit surprised at first to hear on our local radio station K103 playing all Christmas music. Within minutes however I found myself humming along, and even singing along to Drummer Boy and I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas – any stress of wondering if anyone would even show up at the Open House seemed to melt away. This early dose of the holiday season got me thinking about how to make this coming season a rich, memorable and stress-free not only for myself, but our family.
A study by Wirthlin Worldwide revealed that approximately 52% of women and 40% of men ages 35 to 55 said that their stress levels go up during the holidays. The American Psychological Association reports that Americans list lack of money (61%), the pressures of gift giving (42%) lack of time (34%) and credit card debt (23% as the top causes of holiday stress. So, since most of us would fall somewhere in that crowd, what can we do to break not be part of the statistics above. Is it possible to find peace and enjoy the holidays? Is it simply a matter of prioritizing, parsing out tasks and planning ahead? Perhaps start by making a list. Here’s my list:
- Call a charitable organization such as SnowCap, SEWorks, or Doernbecher Children’s Hospital and see how I can get involved. Times are much tougher for a lot of people out there. How can I help to lesson their stress?
- Create memories that last for my family, friends and clients. If I personally make the commitment to enjoy all this season has to offer with a positive attitude and listening to what they value the most about this season.
- Watch the Food Network channel and come up with a signature recipe to share. (I can’t help it – I love food – it’s just that I can’t cook – but I can learn still even at 57)
- Get on my bike at least an hour a day – even if it’s inside on a trainer – got to create some room for those holiday foods ?. To help the time go by I’ll watch the foodnetwork channel ?
That is part of my list – what is yours? Do you have a tradition to share – a favorite recipe not only for some great chocolate fudge, but how to expose yourself to the positive forces around us each day?
Off now to tour some homes for sale in our local area. Perhaps I can make a seller’s life less stressful by bringing them a buyer.
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