Now that it’s time to start preparing for the chaos that often surrounds the holidays, life speeds up, bank accounts fluctuate, and there’s a constant aroma of cinnamon and peppermint in the air. Perhaps not quite so literally, but the holidays definitely mean a shift into higher gear, like it or not. The holidays also bring stress and can lead to poor health, however, and it’s much more common than you’d think. (So, you are not alone if you are heavily stressed, but you don't have to be.) Let's see how we can alleviate some holiday stress!
Protect yourself and assets
We would all like to think that nothing bad can happen over the holidays, but the reality is that this is very much not the case. There are lot of things that could potentially go wrong and that you can (help) protect yourself against.
Protect your home
Reduce the risk of fire in your condo or home by making sure that you are extra careful with candles and other open flame, including the fireplace. Keep your Christmas tree hydrated since running tree lights over a dry tree can cause a fire. Be sure you are using new (or not faulty) extension cords and power strips when lighting up the house with decor. Further, travel is more likely during the holidays so be sure there are lights on in the home when you are away on travel or vacation. Check out the other considerations of our Most Common Causes of Home Damage for a few ideas on keeping your home safe while you travel.
Protect your car
Make sure your car is prepared for any holiday driving, including valid automobile insurance, a proper emergency kit and the appropriate tires as needed. Getting your vehicle maintenanced before you leave can help ensure you arrive to your destination and back home without an extra trip to the mechanicm, while out on the road, stranding you!
Don't forget to hide packages or valuables if you must leave them in the car when you are out shopping, traveling or the like. Regardless of whether you are in a "safe neighborhood" or not, always lock your doors!
The more prepared we are, the easier it will be to protect ourselves. We won’t miss weaknesses that can lead to issues such as break-ins, robberies, or even car jackings. The more in control we are, the less likely we are to make mistakes that could jeopardize your own safety, or that of your home or car. Need help de-stressing? Keep reading for some realistic tips to give you some support.
Take care of you
Make time for you
We all tend to over-commit over the holidays, but it’s important to really make time for yourself. Actually, sit in front of the fireplace with a cup of cocoa or glass of wine, instead of saying you’ll do it tomorrow. Have someone help you with holiday decorating, baking, wrapping gifts and etc, after all it's supposed to be time that we spend with loved ones that is most important during holidays.
Be realistic
Another thing is that we all want to do everything over the holiday season. All the cookies and all of the shopping; but it all means sacrifice and burnout. Bake 3 batches of cookies instead of 10. Try to make 2 Christmas parties instead of 5. Scale back your routine and really focus on being realistic this year.
Prioritize your relationships
Your loved ones are what make good days great and bad days better. Around the holiday season, make sure you prioritize them and your relationship with them. It will also help keep you focused on what really matters... making memories with your family and loved ones!
Holiday safety comes from all sorts of practical features, but emotional health and stress is one of the biggest factors to consider. You deserve to sit back and enjoy the holiday season too, after all, so don’t be afraid to, well, do just that!
One last thing - peace of mind
Peace of mind comes in many shapes and forms. Whether it is personal time or ensuring that your personal safety (at home or in your care) as well as the fact that you are protected should anything occur, can provide some peace.
So, whether you do this before the holidays start or the beginning of the year, this is a great time to come in and have a meeting with your insurance agent. Not only will it offer you up the peace of mind knowing that you are protected, you will also be able to take the time to build up a personal relationship with them. This will give you a dependable contact in the business that will be able to better understand your needs in the present and future. Contact Harbour Insurance Services Inc at (281) 520-4090 and let us take a look at your current insurance coverage (personal or business) and your situation and be sure you are adequately covered.