Creating a Simpler Holiday: Joy-filled Expressions

Creating a JOY-filled, simpler holiday does not happen on-the-fly.  STRESS-filled holidays do!  So how do you keep the joy in and the stress out?  With three key, holiday pre-requisites!

*A PURPOSE *                      *A BUDGET*                           *A PLAN*

A PURPOSE

JOY-filled holidays are filled with meaningful traditions, activities, and events.  Our previous blog post:  "Creating a Simpler Holiday," set the stage through assessing what brings you the most meaning during the holidays, and how to protect and create new meaningful holiday expressions.  Establishing in your mind what you view as the purpose of each holiday will act as a guide to keep you centered.  Keep the Main Thing—THE Main Thing.

A BUDGET

One of the most stress-filled aspects of the holidays is the financial toll taken.  BEFORE spending hard-earned cash, set up realistic parameters to stay within regarding how much to spend and for whom.  We need to let go of the "unwritten rules" on gift giving and embrace the REAL JOY of gift-giving.  Throw out the taboos on second-hand stores, and embrace the treasures to be found there!  Gift in new ways than you have considered before such as; hand-made gifts, the gift of your time/presence and or charitable contributions.

Experience the joy of not having to work overtime in January and February to pay off high credit card bills.  Experience the joy of knowing you stayed within your means and have that peace of mind knowing you can pay for your normal bill expenditures because you did not rack-up your credit cards!

A  PLAN

Draw on what you find to be most meaningful about the holidays and on what you can afford to spend and then create your gift-giving plan and holiday event calendar.  Holiday meals and travel arrangements can be easily created when your purpose and budget are established.  Creating a simpler holiday while your children are still in the home will be of value for them in their future!  Set the right example now, when they are younger and they will more do the same when they are on their own!

Next time on Creating a Simpler Holiday:  Gatherings and Gifts

Keeping up on your green cleaning routines? 

Stay well stocked on your supplies so you don't run out when companies coming!
Green clean environments show you care about your family, guests and our planet! 

Harmony Aromatherapy products found on:  Brightly Green In Home Store