It's the most wonderful time of the year… but for many women, it’s the most stressful too. The pressure we put on ourselves to have the ‘Perfect Christmas’ can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointments, so make sure you’re not putting yourself under unnecessary stress and strain. We’ve identified three of the most common stress ‘triggers’ for the season, and we’ve got some tips on how to handle them. ________________________________________ The Other Half In an ideal world all partnerships would be entirely equal and your partner would plan everything around the festive season with you, help you out with any shopping and housework that needs to be done and navigate the sometimes tricky waters of what days to spend where. That’s easier said than done though, and often we end up feeling isolated and annoyed that the workload is all on our shoulders. How To Handle It… The worst thing you can possibly do is let yourself silently seethe. Don’t expect your partner to be a mind reader. Explain calmly that there is a lot to do and you would really appreciate help, and mention a few specific things your partner could do to ease the workload. Remember to take time out to just be together and enjoy the season too, whether it's a romantic meal or a night spent cuddling on the couch.   Family Matters Though the movies would have you believe that a mother-in-law is second only to a wicked stepmother in terms of her heinous nature, the reality is that most partners’ families will be perfectly lovely. Relations can become slightly strained over Christmas though, and usually the root cause is love. The best example is when children are involved, and two sets of grandparents want their ‘fair share’ of time with the family, with noses out of joint if they think they may be getting the short end of the straw. How To Handle It… Nip any grumbling in the bud before you find yourself at the centre of a tug-of-war. Explain clearly in advance what your plans are and when you’ll be available for family visits. Take any objections on the chin, bending to suit your family or your partner’s will only end in resentment for you both.   Adding It Up There are precious few of us who can enjoy Christmas without worrying about the cost. January is a bleak enough month as it is without going in to it saddled with debt you can’t see past. How To Handle It… It might seem like an old-school sentiment, but Christmas really is about people, not things. Set yourself a budget for gifts, entertaining, socializing and travel, and stick rigidly to it. When it comes to presents it is the thought that counts, at least to anyone who matters. If you can’t afford to hit the town every night, offer yourself up as a designated driver for one night, and invite friends over for a night in at yours. The older you get the more you realise that some quality time spent with three or four close friends is even better than a party with twenty. Take out cash where possible so you’re always aware of what you’re spending and avoid running wild on your cards.