I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling pretty stressed out right about now. I barely made it through Thanksgiving, and here comes a huge round of parties and events. Where do I find the time for all the shopping, baking, wrapping, decorating, mailing, and—oh, yeah—partying?

Every year I make a commitment to really enjoy the holiday season, and every year I get pretty stressed. So this year I did a bit of research and found these tips, which I’ll pass on to you.

1. Take a day off work in early December. Everyone knows that the weekdays are the best time to shop because we’re all working then. So take a day off from work and shop without the crowds and the traffic. Maybe this year shopping will be fun.

2. Treat yourself. I’m really into this one. Take a bubble bath or watch a movie or have a piece of chocolate.

3. Exercise. You won’t feel so guilty about all the extra calories and it helps reduce stress.

4. Skip it. You don’t have to do everything. Maybe you can skip the office party this year. Do you really need to see The Nutcracker one more time? Don’t worry. It’ll be back next year.

5. Remember the reason for the season.

So what are your tips to reduce holiday stress?