Surviving the holidays

Holiday commercials, greeting cards and even television sitcoms set the scene and the expectation: perfectly wrapped presents exchanged in the office or by a crackling fire. Not only does everyone receive a gift, but it is the perfect gift - just what they wanted.

However, things are not always as they seem. For many, finances and schedules are turned upside down during the holidays, which can change get-togethers, gift buying and even receiving into stressful occasions. It is difficult to be cheery when spending is out of control. Getting yourself organized and mindful of what you are spending can help generate peace of mind.

How to cope

Here are some ways to manage the challenges presented by the holidays:

• Create a budget early in the year, or at least at the beginning of the holiday season.
• Include all holiday-related expenses in the list.
• Keep the list from year to year, and keep track of expenses as they're incurred. Determine early on how much you'll be spending on gifts, parties, food and entertainment.
• Don't fall into the trap of trying to match or out-spend those with whom you exchange gifts.
• Stick to your budget.
• Monitor expenses in November and December to decrease stress in January when the bills come due.

The perfect gift

The quality of a relationship does not depend on giving and receiving the perfect gift. The selection of just one thoughtful gift can far outweigh its price tag.

Presentation is an inexpensive way to add value to a gift. To make an impact, gift-wrapping and card giving should not be overlooked. This is a chance to have some fun and add your personality to gift giving. For example, try digging through your jewelry box and putting old costume jewelry to good use by creating custom boxes for your gifts. Adding an individual touch, such as a scarf instead of store-bought ribbon, helps the box itself to become a keepsake and a gift.

It helps to take a moment and reflect on the person to whom you're giving a gift. Wrap a present to an expectant mother in the baby blanket she used as a child, or use fishing line to tie a package for a fishing enthusiast. A holiday card can be a significant accessory as well. You may want to take the time to write a personal note, or create your own card. Giving the holidays a personal touch is the magic that allows them come alive.

The right attitude

Mental preparation is an essential part of the holiday season. Organization and placing less importance on finding the perfect gift can go a long way toward making the season enjoyable. It is important to have realistic expectations about what you can afford. Those expectations allow you to have fun choosing thoughtful gifts. The less stressed out you are from pre-holiday preparations, the happier and more "present" you will be when the holiday festivities begin.