The holidays are killing me...and it's not even December yet!

Question

As a working mother, I always begin the month of December feeling completely overwhelmed. Work is crazy busy with year-end projects, and on top of it, managing the holidays is a full time job. I have to get gifts for everyone in my family, not to mention teachers, hair stylist, etc. I used to love the holiday -- but lately I am just the grinch. Anyone else feel the same way?

Jane S. · Answer

yes, totally. getting gifts for everyone really stresses me out. I think I'm too much of a perfectionist about it/am always trying to come up with the most thoughtful gifts ideas. I need to be OK with just choosing something and being done w/ it.

Lady Pele · Answer

The way I reduced my stress was by making a spreadsheet, listing every person and then their hobbies, personality traits, etc.  When that’s done, I used a search engine to get better ideas based on their interests.

For example, by writing down things about my sister and brother-in-law, I noted that they are retired and their health isn’t the best.  However, they try to take 2-3 road trips every year.  I bought my brother-in-law a travel journal so that he can record the places they’ve visited and an engraved pen/pencil set.  Because of my sister’s poor health, I bought a cashmere throw/shawl she can use at home or in the car, as well as a subscription to a local magazine highlighting shops and restaurants for the days they’re both feeling well and want to try something new.

But if it’s really stressing you out, stop someplace with a large gift card kiosk, and pick those up.  Millennials I know love getting Starbucks gift cards.  Restaurant cards are popular with all ages.  College students like getting gas cards or anything related to food.  :-)

Megan Smolen · Answer

You are so not alone. I was just talking to a colleague about how overwhelming gifting can be. While I love to gift people, choosing the right thing with the right budget is so stressful. Some people call this stress 'decision fatigue' (tons of us get this). If you think about it, each gift idea is full of decisions... Some examples: Did I miss a sale online? Is there going to be a lot of traffic? What will parking be line? What color/size should I choose? What is the return policy? Can I afford this? Will they like it? - These questions sound familiar to me. Do they for you??

Lady Pele · Answer

I am so sorry that you have to go through this.  I love your attitude and hope you don't bruise your foot kicking ass!

Anonymous · Answer

So this is a weird post to offer but I want to share.  I usually feel the same way but I was diagnosed with breast cancer two weeks ago.  Not kidding.  I'm still wrapping my head around the whole thing.  But...that said...it's causing me to seriously re-examine my priorities.  And what I'm finding out is that what usually stresses me out isn't even on the radar this year.  For the gifts you guys mentioned (teachers, hair stylist, etc.) I'm getting gift cards but taking the time to write a personal note with them.  Our son's teacher has been so supportive and amazing...my gift for her is really telling her how awesome she is and what a difference she has made for us.  I have a feeling that I won't be the same person once I kick cancer's ass (which I fully plan on doing)  : ) and that I may never be truly stressed about stuff like this again.

The holidays are killing me...and it's not even December yet!

You're invited.

See what women are sharing on Fairygodboss.