The holidays, in all their glory, are still a stressful and difficult time. As nice as it is to spend time with family, and perhaps even get some time off of work, we still have to worry about all the planning that goes into it.

Let’s not even get started on the financial aspect. “I’m too poor for Christmas and other adult problems” could be a blog all its own.

Fear not, twenty-somethings, you will make it through the next two weeks in one piece! Here are a few tips and tricks to keep you going without losing your sanity. I am employing #2 as we speak…

1. Make An Ugly Christmas Sweater.

Ugly Christmas sweaters are so in right now. Shine like a star in yours by using the most ridiculous materials possible. If it blinks, even better.

Get creative. Take out all of your Christmas frustration on your creation. Your friends will thank you for it.

2. Load Up On the Sugar.

Sugar makes us happier people, which means we will be much more adept at handling the holiday stress with a smile on our face. Bring on the chocolate advent calenders, Santa.

3. Decorate.

A little holiday cheer around the home and office can go a long way. I have an ugly Christmas sweater mug that I am currently drinking religiously out of, mugly for short.

Decorations don’t have to be expensive- you can get lots of great stuff at the Dollar Store or through seasonal sales at craft stores. Remember, I’m basically too poor to function, but I can still budget a small amount to make the apartment feel full of holiday tidings.

4. Watch Your Favorite Christmas Movies.

I suggest starting with Elf and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. They will make you happy. I promise.

5. Distance the Crazies

Try your best to not let any idiots ruin your happiness. There are a lot of miserable people focusing on all they don’t have around the holidays, and their problems aren’t yours to take on.

Focus on the positives in your life, and use them as a protective bubble to shield yourself from all the Scrooges out there. You are awesome, and ain’t nobody gonna get you down! Life is beautiful and there is so much to be grateful for. Smile, give grace, and spread cheer. Make your little corner of the world a better place.

xoxo

Sarah