I’ve just issued my Coping with Christmas Press Release to the media. And with only 4 weeks until Christmas the hype, stress, family pressures over-spending and over-indulgence are set to take their hold. Shops and transport will be heavy as wallets and purses will get ever lighter. However three simple steps will help your Christmas be happy and peaceful without spiralling into stress and debt.

Preparation, moderation and communication are the ‘3 wise keys’ to surviving the financial and emotional stress and strains of Christmas during the economic downturn.

Rasheed Three Wise Keys of Christmas

1. Preparation:

* Set a budget you can afford and stick to it: don’t give in all the ads, expectation and hype.
* Decide who you do and don’t want to spend time with over Xmas and for how long.
* Give everyone time and space to plan and to adjust/ overcome any disappointment.

2. Moderation:

* Are times tough? Set a gift truce. Agree not to buy each other gifts, or only buy for kids.
* Know your limits when it comes to food and drink
* Partying? Have fun but be measured - work and social relationships can be harmed at Xmas

3. Communication:

* Discuss sensitively: tell all concerned what you will / won’t be doing well in advance.
* Avoid arguments - everyone can be on edge so step back to safer ground.
* Bury the hatchet: use this time of peace and goodwill to end feuds and fights.

Read Rasheed’s Coping with Christmas Press Release here.

Rasheed Ogunlaru is a leading life coach, motivational speaker and author of The Gift of Inner Success.