1. Reducing Holiday Stress & Enjoying a Debt Free December
Heather Greenwood
Extension Agent
Virginia Cooperative Extension

2. Holidays are about... Family Friends Tradition Habits Peace/Joy
Generosity

3. Sources of Stress Inability to fulfill perceived obligations
Economic strains
Change in routine
Emotional problems
Actions conflicting with values

4. Common holiday stresses
Overspending
Overeating
Unrealistic expectations
Giving the perfect gift
Traditions/habits (the way mom/dad did it)
Commercialism
Distance from family

5. Reducing Overspending Stress
Plan gift giving
Track expenses - stay within prescribed spending limits
Restructure traditions
SIMPLIFY

6. Overspending Plan gift giving, track expenses Use cash, not credit
Exchange with friends at New Years
Give coupons
Honesty - explain hard times, change gift giving habits
Audio/video tapes
Family holiday nights

7. Creative and practical gifts
Car emergency kits
College student cleaning kits
First aid kits
Paper kits
Baking kits
School kit
Family calendar
Movie night basket

8. Reducing Holiday Stress
Prioritize
Delegate (potluck, share set up/clean up)
Stay healthy (eat, sleep, exercise)
Give time
Redefine family
Accept feelings of sadness

9. Weight Management Develop a social support system
Avoid cooking where possible
Bake foods that discourage nibbling
Focus on conversation rather than food
Walk after meals

10. Uncovering Holiday Myths
No money = no fun
The holidays are a perfect time for perfect families
Conflicts can be put aside
Holidays are a time of complete joy