Ways to Reduce Last Minute Thanksgiving Stress

Having some Thanksgiving stress at the last minute? These tips will help you reduce that last-minute Thanksgiving stress in no time.

Even when you plan very well Thanksgiving can be overwhelming. Our to-do lists can often be a mile long. And all too often we have surprises that can make the day very stressful.

Thanksgiving should be a day to enjoy friends and family and not a day to be stressed and overwhelmed. The most important thing to do to reduce Thanksgiving stress is to breathe and give yourself grace.

The day doesn’t need to be perfect. Every recipe doesn’t need to look like it could be in a magazine, it’s okay if the glasses don’t all match, and no one will care or likely even notice that your oven isn’t clean. Well, assuming it doesn’t set off the fire alarm but even that is just a funny story to tell at future Thanksgivings.

So that’s what you must first remember but there are other things that can also help reduce your Thanksgiving stress.

Reducing Thanksgiving Stress

The first step is to get organized. Take a deep breath and make some lists. I recommend using my Thanksgiving planner because it’s one less thing to worry about.

It’s downloadable so you get it instantly (or close at least) and can print it off and start using it right away. The host cheat sheet is especially helpful when you are feeling stressed.

Once you have your plan check out these tips for some of the top last-minute stresses and what you can do about them.

Last Minute Cleaning

House still a wreak or have some surprise guests coming over? Start with the most important things first, get dishes done, clean the bathrooms, and pick up clutter.

Also, get the other members of your household to chip in! And if you have rooms you can close off, don’t worry about them unless you have extra time. You can also check out 10 Minutes to a Spotless Home this Holiday Season for more tips.

Last Minute Food

Maybe someone got sick that was bringing a dish. Or maybe you just forgot you needed more food. It can happen but don’t freak out.

There are some easy last-minute side dishes (homemade biscuits are my pick for an easy side dish), desserts and my heart goes out to you if last minute you found out you need to cook the turkey but if you do here are some tips on how to cook a turkey. Ham is also a good option as it’s much easier to make.

Last Minute Entertainment

Forget to come up with entertainment ideas or maybe you didn’t even know you were hosting until the last minute? Honestly, guests can normally entertain themselves so don’t worry too much about this one but if you have the time check out these fun game ideas, Thanksgiving printables for kids, and this cute Thanksgiving cootie catcher.

 

Make your to-do list, keep it as short as possible, ask for help, and take a deep breath. And of course, remember what’s important tomorrow. I hope everyone has a wonderful and stress-free Thanksgiving. I’m very thankful for all of you.

Be sure to get your Thanksgiving Planner to help you stay organized. And be sure to sign up for the Thanksgiving e-course below.