Holiday Stress Habit Assessment

1. What feelings do you associate with the holidays (e.g., enthusiasm, worry)?
   
   
2. How vulnerable are you to falling into a spending trap (i.e., over-extending yourself financially)?
   _________ (# from 0 to 10)
   
   0........1........2........3........4........5........6........7........8........9........10
   not at all vulnerable.................................................. ..........................vulnerable
   
3. What is the likelihood that you and your significant other will get into conflict?
   _________ (# from 0 to 10)
   
   0........1........2........3........4........5........6........7........8........9........10
   not at all likely............................................................................likely
   
4. What is the likelihood that there will be conflict in your family of origin?
   _________ (# from 0 to 10)
   
   0........1........2........3........4........5........6........7........8........9........10
   not at all likely............................................................................likely
   
5. How realistic are your expectations for the holidays?
   _________ (# from 0 to 10)
   
   0........1........2........3........4........5........6........7........8........9........10
   not at all realistic............................................................................realistic
   

Circle one: My stress habits help me to cherish the holiday My stress habits lead me to negative stress reactions

Changing Holiday Stress Habits - Quick Lists

Tips for Time and Energy Management Examine your expectations for what the holidays should be like Prioritize activities-Eliminate what is unnecessary Compromise on meals and baking Compromise on decorating

• Stay within a reasonable budget for purchasing gifts
• Examine and modify my expectation that I must give the "perfect gift"
• Limit decorations to what I can afford
• Save money on eating and entertainment

• Discuss expectations with family and what you would like to be different
• Decide what is healthy for you in terms of dealing with your family of origin
• Set aside time and discuss your expectations for the holidays with your significant other

• Make the day(s) special in some way (e.g. preparing a special meal)
• Pamper yourself (e.g. treating yourself to a book, movie, hot bath,etc.)
• Accept or extend an invitation to an acquaintance
• Volunteer to help those less fortunate.

Individualized Plan for Change