Christmas is a busy time for most people, but it's especially hectic for mums! Not only are there the presents to buy, the food to sort out and the children to amuse, but there are always plenty of people to try and see too. Every year it amazes me that virtually every acquaintance I have, phones or sends me an e-mail asking to "meet up for a drink for Christmas." Before I know it, I have most of December and half of November booked out trying to see people!

It's the same with families too. You may find yourself pulled in various directions as your family tries to plan time in to see you, as does your partner's family. If you add in a few brothers and sisters into the mix too not to mention people based in different locations, then it can become incredibly confusing and even stressful trying to work out when and where to see everybody! As our respective families grow, it can be harder to accommodate everyone. If you are a new family, or even just wanting to spend some precious time alone with your immediate family, it can be daunting trying to fit everyone in.

There never seems to be enough time to do everything and please everyone and the key is to realise this and say so. Yes, Christmas is and should be a happy time of the year, but it won't be enjoyable if you're rushing from one place to another and constantly thinking about where you have to be next! Be realistic about the number of people you can see over Christmas. Spread things out throughout December so that you're not cramming in trying to see everyone over the few days of Christmas itself. Decide who you and your partner really want to see at this time and then tell other people that whilst you'd love to see them, there just isn't the time to do so until January. It can help to have other dates and occasions planned in for this month, as once the festivities are over, everything can sometimes feel a bit "flat."

Don't be scared of starting your own traditions and having your own special time with just your partner and your children. Christmas can be extremely busy and fraught, so it's important to have some time out. Book some time out in the diary to spend a day or have a meal out together where it's just for you, your partner and your children.

Here are a few extra tips, to help you have a stress free Christmas:

Plan your time in advance - decide who you want to see over the period and try to agree suitable dates in advance, so that you can plan your time and any travel arrangements. If you can't fit everyone in over the Christmas period, make plans to see each other in the New Year. It will also give you something to look forward to. Remember, if you're going to be the host over Christmas, avoid playing host on consecutive days, to ensure you get a break in between.

Shopping - if you need to buy presents, start early to avoid the rush and spread the cost. Make a list of what you need to buy and plan which shops you need to visit to help save time and energy. Online shopping is very popular now and can mean stress free shopping from the comfort of your home (avoid the crowds and your shopping is delivered directly to your home).

Ask for and offer support - if you need to go shopping ask family or friends to look after the children, so you don't have to worry about them coming along. Then return the favour.

Share and prepare in advance - if you're inviting family or friends over during the festive season, why not suggest everyone makes a contribution and brings a dish or helps with the cooking. That way, you're not left slaving in the kitchen whilst everyone else is having a good time. Plan your menu and try to prepare certain things in advance, so that you're not cooking everything in the last minute.

Finances - Christmas can be quite an expensive time if you allow it, so consider what you can afford and then plan your Christmas around the budget. Be strict! Chat to family members and friends - why not suggest just buying gifts for the children or if buying for adults too, agree to spend up to an agreed amount and no more.

Traditions - you probably grew up with certain Christmas traditions and perhaps continue them with your parents, grandparents and siblings. If you've started your own family, then why not think about forming a tradition of your own, which will be special to you and your children. Whether it's attending a family carol concert, making a home made Christmas cake or staying home on Boxing Day and just being together, I'm sure you'll find a tradition that suits you.

Time for you - remember to plan in some time just for you. Whether it's a day, an afternoon or an hour, plan in some time to do something you enjoy and get away from all the planning and organising for a while. Then by the time Christmas arrives, you'll still have lots of energy to enjoy the festive season.

Wishing you all peace and happiness over the Christmas season and for the New Year.

To find out more about dealing with changes in your life and for help in creating a life that you love, visit www.horizonsregained.com