Give yourself a gift

Instead of becoming stressed out about all of the things you need to do during the holidays, give yourself the gift of peace by simplifying a few holiday traditions.

Avoid the holiday greeting card rush

• Prevent stress over sending traditional year-end holiday cards when you're already super busy. Instead, look for opportunities at other times of the year to reach out with cards.

• Get a jump on next year — save money and time by waiting until after the holidays to buy cards that are on sale.

Simplify gift-giving

• Make a list of everyone you want to buy for, and then whittle it down to just close friends and family.

• Create a reasonable budget, and stick to it.

• Buy or make small, thoughtful gifts — jellies, jams, or even a candle — for those last-minute gift-giving opportunities.

Treat Yourself

• In the middle of the holiday bustle, take time to read, listen to music, or take a delicious midday nap.