The holidays are right around the corner, and while it’s the “most wonderful time of the year,” it can also be super stressful. Between buying gifts, planning meals, and juggling all those family get-togethers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry! With a little bit of prep, you can enjoy the holiday season without all the chaos. Let’s talk about five easy ways to get ahead and actually enjoy your holidays this year.

1. Start Planning Early

We’ve all been there—last-minute shopping, panicking over unbought gifts, or scrambling to cook a huge meal on the day of. Save yourself the stress by planning early! Whether it’s making a gift list or deciding who’s coming to dinner, getting organized ahead of time will take a lot of weight off your shoulders.

Here’s a tip: create a holiday checklist in early November (or even October). Write down everything from gift shopping to meal planning to decorations. Having a plan will help you stay on track and avoid those last-minute dashes to the store.

2. Set a Budget (and Stick to It)

Holiday expenses can spiral out of control if you’re not careful—gifts, decorations, travel, and food can add up fast. To keep your wallet from taking a hit, set a holiday budget. Decide how much you want to spend on gifts, food, and other holiday-related items.

Once you have your budget, track your spending. If you’re an online shopper, using apps or spreadsheets can be helpful to keep things in check. You don’t need to buy the most expensive gifts to show your love! Thoughtful, meaningful presents can often be much more appreciated than pricey ones.

3. Get Your Shopping Done Early

Holiday shopping at the last minute is like trying to navigate a circus—crowded stores, long lines, and items out of stock. Save yourself the hassle by getting your shopping done early. Start looking for gifts as soon as possible, whether it’s in stores or online.

Shopping early also gives you time to find deals, compare prices, and get exactly what you want without settling for what’s left on the shelf. Plus, once your gifts are wrapped and ready to go, you can kick back and relax.

4. Don’t Overcommit

It’s tempting to say yes to every holiday party, family gathering, or cookie exchange, but overcommitting can lead to burnout. Be mindful of your schedule and don’t be afraid to say no if it’s too much. Focus on quality over quantity—choose a few key events that matter most to you and skip the rest. Your time and sanity are just as important as holiday fun!

5. Remember Self-Care

The holidays can be a whirlwind of activities, but don’t forget to take care of yourself! Whether it’s scheduling some downtime, practicing mindfulness, or sneaking in a nap, make sure you’re not running on empty. It’s okay to take breaks and recharge, even in the middle of holiday madness.

With a little planning, budgeting, and prioritizing, the holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful. By starting early, setting boundaries, and making time for yourself, you’ll be ready to enjoy the holidays without feeling overwhelmed. After all, the holidays are about joy, love, and spending time with the people who matter most—so let’s make the most of it!