• Order online and avoid the malls! There's nothing quite like venturing out for some cheerful holiday shopping, only to be disheartened by excess traffic, road rage and bad moods. Holiday shoppers tend to be rushed and agitated. Avoid this energy drain by ordering online. Many sights now offer free shipping if you order a minimum amount.
  
• Don't be a martyr. Share duties with pride. Maintain your soulfulness by striving for a healthy balance, not perfection.
  
• Let your values guide you in giving. Do your children really need twenty gifts from family members? Do you want them to give to others, or just receive? How are you teaching them about gratitude and helping the less fortunate? Think through your values and take the time to teach them.
  
• Prioritize and say no. Take at least 24 hours to answer any request. If it isn't a high priority, and doesn't contribute to a healthy balance, say no thank-you! Focus on what matters most and don't sweat the small stuff.
  
• Take excellent care of yourself. In order to handle some of the inevitable stress of the holidays, take excellent care of yourself. Exercise regularly, make time for friends and fun, and eat well. Yoga classes work wonders. Rather than wishing the holidays were behind you- you'll actually enjoy the process!
  
• Keep quiet in your days. Protect at least 30 minutes of quiet every day. Breathe deeply, rest, do some yoga, write in a journal. Do what feels right to relax and unwind. Some quiet time is essential for inner peace and well-being.
  
• Don't forget to play! Have some fun with your kids. Go see a show, play some games, enjoy the outdoors, dance together, and so on. These are the moments you'll all remember with fondness.
  

Calm the holiday frazzles. Simplify, prioritize, focus on fun, and don't sweat the small stuff. As a result, you'll celebrate the holidays as the person you want to be - relaxed, happy and energized.

I wish you joy and peace this holiday season!

Visit http://www.briacoach.com to learn more about my coaching services and my new book, The Balanced Mom Raising Your Kids Without Losing Yourself. The book is also available on Amazon.com and in all major bookstores.

© 2007 by Bria Simpson
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