16 Ways to Avoid Holiday Shopping Stress

It's hard to bring joy to the world when there's so much to do during the holidays. So, be smart this season and get organized now.

Before you head out to the store or open up a tab on your computer, list everyone you're buying for this year. Next to each name, write at least three things you think they might like (or have specifically asked for). If you're super organized, you'll have kept a running list somewhere on your phone. Keep in mind, you don't have to go with these particular gifts. This is just to point you in a direction—and any direction will do.

Turn the page and make another list, this time with everyone who needs something extra: stuff for their stockings, a donated present, company gift exchange. Now, list possibilities next to each of those.

Now you can start shopping—online, of course! If you can get it delivered to your door, you save time and avoid stress. Whatever's leftover (it's OK to have some leftovers), head out to the mall or your favorite shopping superstore—and don't forget your lists.

If possible, try shopping at actual stores over your lunch hour, or take some time off during the workday. If there's a way to avoid shopping in the evenings or on weekends, take advantage of it. (If it's online shopping, then anything goes!)

Don't try to do it all in one day or even in one weekend. Remember, you can shop up until Christmas Eve. It's a marathon, not a sprint.

That said, don't wait until the last minute for all your gifts. Get ones you have to ship or hand over before Christmas out of the way as early as you can. Save the last few shopping days for just a few more things or people you might have overlooked.

Don't shop for the holidays on the same day that you'll be attending a party. Create your holiday calendar now and schedule in shopping days. Get off your feet during the day of a Christmas party, relax and get your hair blown out. You'll want to show up fresh and relaxed, not frazzled and half put together.

Nothing is more stressful than watching money fly out of your hands, particularly if times are tight. When you make your first list, note how much you have to spend at the top and pencil in how much you can afford to spend on each person on the list. Stick to specified dollar amounts. Don't bring a $20 gift to the $10-maximum gift exchange.

Holidays are filled with sugar, carbs and alcohol. Indulge, of course, but when you're the one who gets to choose, choose vegetables, protein and other healthy, nutrient-rich foods.

Get your groceries delivered. Use valet parking at the mall. Take advantage of gift-wrapping services. These time-savers are relatively inexpensive and keep you out of the crowds and away from those who are fighting for parking spaces and a spot in the shortest checkout lines.

When you do leave the house to shop, dress comfortably. You'll clock miles by the time you're done at the mall, the shopping center and the superstore. Keep your feet feeling good in your favorite sneaks or lined boots.

Take some time during these busy weeks for yourself. Get a haircut and color, a massage, manicure and pedicure. Whatever you can afford and have time for. Get together with friends for lunch or coffee. Recharge without creating extra to-do items.

You'll actually feel less tired from the stress of shopping and holiday obligations if you maintain your workout routine. Not only will you burn a few of the extra calories from cookies, spiked coffees and delicious holiday spreads, you'll also keep your metabolism up, sleep better and release the stress that is inevitably building up.

You don't have to accept every invitation. Take a rain check and promise lunch or drinks after the New Year. We're all stressed, and friends and family understand. Do only what you really want to do, or what you're required to do. If it's optional? Weigh the pros and cons. Always feel free to opt out (or leave early).

Instead of thinking about what you still have left to do, sit back, look at the tree and remember everything you've already done. Something might fall through the cracks. No one ever hated getting a holiday card days, weeks or months after the New Year.

In the end, part of the fun of the holidays is the rush toward the finish line. While you shouldn't let it beat you down, you can also just embrace the madness. There's no such thing as the perfect holiday, but you can try your best to get close. It won't be easy, but it will be fun. You can always take it easy next year.