We are in the midst of the holidays, no matter what you celebrate. This is one of the highest times of stress for people around the globe. I believe the Codependents tend to get even more stressed than usual during this time. Why?

Codependents think they need to be doing it all, meeting everyone's needs and keeping everyone happy - usually to the point of utter exhaustion and with the result of the holidays just flying by. How do you know you're heading towards holiday burnout?

1. Do you say "yes" to attending almost every holiday party?
2. Do you feel obligated to send cards to every single person you know - even the neighbors you only occasionally wave at but never talk to?
3. Do you offer to bring something (or several somethings) to every party you attend?
4. Do you host your own holiday party?
5. Do you feel you have to get the most perfect gift for everyone on your list?
6. Speaking of gift lists - is everyone on your list or is it limited to close friends and family?
7. Do you feel obligated to buy gifts for every family member?

If you answered Yes to four or more of these questions you are probably feeling frantic about now trying to get everything done, and thus are in danger of burning out.

What Can You Do to Lessen or Prevent Holiday Burnout?

When you feel like you are overburdened and heading towards burnout what can you do?

1. STOP! Put on the breaks and take a breather.
2. If you could have the ideal (for you!) holiday what would it look like? Describe it in as much detail as possible. What party's would go to? Who would you be with? What would you be doing?
3. Look at your list of obligations. Determine which are the critical ones (for you!)and why. Make different agreements with the ones that you no longer wish to say yes to. No need to go into detail and explain. Just state that you are no longer able to make the party, bake the dish or whatever it is and wish them a happy holiday and sign off.
4. If you are giving the party (and you really want to give it), have others bring items to help. Most people want to help, they just don't know what you need. Whether its help with food, supplies or set up and clean up - ASK!
5. Make an agreement to do name exchange for gifts (especially for large groups of people, even family!), or as a group, adopt a family for Christmas instead! If you feel its too late to do it this year, start the talks now for next year.
6. If you don't enjoy baking, don't! Buy some from the store! Or, instead of using the good china for the holiday, use some festive paper plates! It makes clean up go so much faster!
7. Be sure to take some down time for yourself! Like watching your favorite Christmas specials with your loved ones!

No matter what you celebrate, the holidays are about family, friends......and love. Whatever your festivities, this should be your focus and priority. As long as it is, it will be easier for you to know what to say "yes" to and what to say "no thanks" to.

May you and your family be blessed and filled with love. I look forward to seeing you in 2014!
Bright Blessings Always!