1. Get your holiday shopping done early. Last minute holiday shopping is one of the most frustrating things to have to contend with. There's never any parking, things are always sold out, everyone is irritable and stores are crowded. If you want to avoid this chaos, try to get your shopping done as early as possible. In all seriousness, try buying holiday presents during sales throughout the year.

2. Indulge in the holiday spirit. A lot of people blame the holidays for their stress, but it's really a lot of stressors in action all at once. If only for a day, just take some time off and stop worrying about your seemingly never-ending to-do list. Go shop for some decorations and make your house as festive as possible. Dress up as Santa Claus and entertain the neighborhood kids. Play Secret Santa at work or with your neighbors. The holidays can be a very pleasant time if you let it be. Don't just focus on the shopping and the various chores. This will help keep you sane during the holidays and you may find your love for them again.

3. Get creative with your presents. Many people stress out during the holidays because they simply don't have enough money to give everyone presents. However, there is a way around this. No one says that presents have to be expensive. Instead, be more creative with your gift giving. Try making some homemade gifts. Pinterest is a great source for DIY projects. They can be economical and fun!

4. Cut down on the family squabbles. Family drama is usually one of the most annoying aspects of the holiday season. It's a sad fact that when the family comes into town, arguments may arise. While this can sometimes be completely out of your control, it's important to make sure everyone remembers why they're there. This is a time for celebration and togetherness. Don't let petty disagreements and old family drama disrupt your holidays. If anything does happen, don't take it personally and move on. Minor comments can turn into full-blown squabbles when you start escalating the situation. If you aren't involved in the disagreement, try to be the voice of reason and get everyone else back on loving terms.

There are many ways in which the holidays can just seem like a huge drag. Once you focus on what the holidays actually mean and have a plan of attack to be prepared for them you just may end up enjoying them as much as the kids do!

Happy Holidays!

By Jen Mathews
DERMAdoctor Staff Writer

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