7 WAYS TO HAVE A SIMPLER CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR

• Commit to only what's important - give yourself the gift of time and don’t overschedule yourself or your family during the holidays. Choose activities you really want to do and don’t feel pressured to squeeze everything in.

• Think about low-cost or simple activities you can do with your family, like a walk in the woods or playing a board game, to enjoy time together.

• Don’t feel pressured to keep up with the Joneses — it’s OK to have fewer things under the tree or to skip the latest and greatest electronic device.

• Shopping for your kids and

tired of having so much “stuff” after the holidays? A good rule of thumb that has gained traction on social media in the past few years is the rule of four gifts: something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read. Consider your traditions — is there something you do each year because you’ve always done it that way, but don’t really enjoy it? Don't be afraid to ditch a tradition if it’s not working for you or your family.

• If overspending is an issue at the holidays, take time in advance to set a budget, figure out a list, and consider alternatives. Instead of

buying gifts for all your family or friends, talk to others about the potential of drawing names or doing a swap. Look for expenses you can eliminate or reduce first, by finding things to cut out of your holiday spending, such as ditching holiday cards or even reducing the budget for the people you buy for each year.

• Food costs can easily creep up higher during the holidays. If you don’t enjoy baking, skip it, or choose to make your family's favourite cookie and stick with just one option. If you don’t enjoy turkey, don’t feel obligated to make one because it’s tradition — there are many other options.