The holidays can be a wonderful and joyful time of year. They can also be a very stressful time. But just as there is a lot to do before the holidays begin. There are also tons of things to do when the holiday ends. You are beginning a new year, and it’s always nice to start if off right and with less stress.

First, try and find some time for yourself. You have just spent time with all of your family and friends in the span of a few days. That can get quite exhausting. Take some time to be alone and re-gather all the energy you might have left behind. This would be the perfect time to take a walk, do a little bit of meditation, or even sit down with that new book you got as a present.

Now that you have relaxed a bit, you are ready to take inventory. This may seem like a daunting task, but trust me when I say it will make coming into the new year that much easier. During this time you may want to look at your expenses for the holiday season.I usually try to keep all my receipts for gifts, décor and food. This is also a great time to start counting up any of that holiday money you received. This way you can start the New Year on the right financial track.

This might also be a good time to exchange any faulty gifts. Though it may be hard this is also a time to get rid of any gifts that you know will not serve you in your new year. It’s hard for us to part from these items because they were given to us by loved ones. So in turn we feel that the gift is a representation of their love. But truthfully the people in your life will love you no matter what. Even if that means that you get rid of that third toaster that they have given you in two years. Or that throw that you just absolutely hate. These are items that will just clutter up your home. If you are so inclined to donate those unwanted items to charities. Someone else may find great value and use out of your unwanted gifts. It’s a good way to keep spreading the holiday cheer while keep your home clutter free. If you want to get a kick-start on your organizing for the next year, return the unwanted items and buy yourself some needed organizing tools.

Finally, I would set a date to take down your holiday decorations. I know how sad it is to see the all the pretty décor go back into it’s box in the basement or attic for another year. But know that you are making way for a fresh new start in the New Year. I am not saying that you have to plan your date right away. It can be for a month after if you are so inclined. Just remember to set some time aside to get this done. It will be one less thing you have to think about later down the line and this way you can enlist help in this project. Instead of leaving it last minute so you end up doing it all yourself.

These are just a few tips to help you deal with that holiday aftermath. I hope that they have been helpful, so that you may now start your new year with fresh eyes.

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