1 . Every article you read on this topic will tell you to just say no to things that stress you out . As if it were that simple ! My advice is to say yes - with gratitude . It ’ s all about inner dialogue and the story you tell yourself that will shape your holiday experience . Flip “ I have to …” to “ I get to …” or even “ I ’ m looking forward to …” Feel the stress and anxiety melt away when you shift to a mindset of thankfulness for all you and get to experience . Psychologist Tim Sharp , founder of The Happiness Institute , recommends planting small seeds of optimism that will blossom into a more positive outlook overall , such as “ once I get these gifts wrapped , I can check it off my list and stop stressing about it .” He also recommends making whatever you ’ re doing more fun by adding cheerful music or making a game of it . It ’ s tough to be in a bad mood when Christmas jams are playing .