Christmas season. It's that time of the year- again! It does not have to be stressful and expensive. Year after year, so many are caught in their own traps come the holiday season.

Precious lessons about giving presents of years past do not sink in. Time management is forgotten. Stress just piles up and it takes the fun out of the season. Diet and exercise are put on hold. Budget is forgotten as overspending takes over.

It's not only the dilemma of what to give anyone. The social calendar is over-crowded, between family, friends and career engagements- there are not enough hours and days. There is the holiday decorations and for the traditionalists, add the stress of baking.

Who can ignore family issues- whose family will host this year's dinner, who visits with whom, remember there are two main sides of the family.

Planning:

Some best laid plans can go awry. But- a proper planning for the holidays can save a lot of aggravation, stress and going over-budget.

The season is not about trying to please everyone. You have as much right to enjoy the festive atmosphere. But- someone has to take control. This involves all aspect of the holidays- from gifts, to the menu, to the social engagements, time off to enjoy some quality family time, travel time and most importantly, the financial issue.

Gifts

The years should have taught you a few smarts about giving presents. Do not get trapped by the tempting ads, where you don't have to pay a cent till years later. It is a wonderful thought to buy someone the latest gadget, toys or gizmos.

Adults who want these toys badly can save for it. Then they can get exactly what they want. No hassle over keeping receipts and worry about returns. Unless money is not a problem and you've got lots of it, then be wickedly generous.

The season is a time to teach the younger ones the value of money and appreciate what they have.

How many parents waste precious dollars on toys whose value lasts only for a few hours? It is heart-warming to hear of families who decide to reach out to the less fortunate. This is teaching the younger ones lessons in charity.

Budget Time and Money

Someone suggested buying gifts cards over the year. Use it at Christmas time to buy gifts, or give them as presents. If you must shop during the season, make a list, stick to it.

Stock up on non- perishable food supplies prior to the season. Baking can be done ahead.

At the end of the season, keep track of the gift boxes, cards, wrapping paper and other paraphernalia.

Keep an inventory of what you accumulate. It is easy to forget and get disorganized.

Time

There is never enough time to do everything. So it seems. Think ahead of the errands, social activities and other items that demand some time.

Shopping can take so much time. Ever think of shopping on-line? There are many reliable on-line shops. But think of doing this ahead of time to allow for shipping.

If you love shopping, budget the free days or evenings when you can shop leisurely prior to the Christmas rush. But remember to make that list and stick to it.

Try not to shop during rush hours- like Friday evenings and Saturdays. Do not give in to last minute shopping urge. This can get very expensive.

Decorating for the season can be fun. It is one of the best part of Christmas- the lights and colors. For the busy people, mark an evening or weekend to do this. Get the family involved, or invite friends over, make it the season get- together with close friends and have fun. Take this time to exchange gifts and celebrate.

Business socials can not be ignored. Luckily, most of these socials are scheduled before the rush. This gives you the time to arrange your schedule.

Travelling to and fro to be with family adds stress during the season. Set your priorities, you can not be with everyone. Check your calendar and choose what is best for you and your loved ones to get together and share the festive season. The weather can add extra stress, keep this in mind.

Do not forget the school activities- try to keep these dates clear. Nothing cheers a young heart more that to see you there in the audience, clapping and cheering.

Enjoy the essence of the Christmas season. Fill your heart with the joys and cheers, the time it allows us all to shower our world with love, caring and sharing with modest generosity.