For most people, the holiday season is a busy time of year, filled with obligations. There are work parties, family get-togethers, friends to see, presents to make or buy, and lots of food to cook and eat. For some, the holiday season is the best time of year, and they really get into the spirit of the holidays. For others, it can be a stressful, frustrating or lonely period that is followed by the dead of winter.

Whether you are one of these extremes or somewhere in between, maintaining your balance during the holiday season should be a priority. So before Black Friday hits and the holiday season shifts into high gear, here are five tips to help keep you sane:

1. Plan ahead.

During the holiday season, time can slip away, with dates and obligations sneaking up on you. It can be easy to get distracted and forget a party or put off holiday shopping until the last possible minute. The best thing you can do is plan ahead and write down all your dates on a calendar and/or daily planner. Pick a few specific days to go shopping — the earlier, the better. This will save you from long lines and give you some leeway in case you can’t find the gifts you are looking for.

2. Don’t over-promise.

You may be faced with many invitations from friends and family over the holidays. Although you may think you need to accept them all for the sake of holiday spirit, you don’t have to. By saying yes to one responsibility, you’ll need to say no to another at some point, whether it’s going shopping or baking cookies for a party. Don’t over-promise when it comes to agreeing to party dates or presents. If you don’t think you can make it work, graciously decline, and if it turns out you can make it after all, then go — the holidays are full of surprises!

3. Create a budget.

Many people push the limit of their credit during the holidays and spend a good chunk of the next year paying it off. Sometimes they see the perfect gift for someone they love, but it comes with a hefty price tag, or they feel that they have to get something for almost everyone they know. The best way to prevent the stress that comes with overspending is to plan ahead and create a budget. Set aside an amount of money that you can afford to spend on gifts, then keep tabs on any other expenses, such as foodstuffs and transportation, because those can add up quick.

4. Stay healthy.

With all the eating and drinking that goes on during the holidays, it’s not surprising for people to gain a few pounds. Holiday foods tend to be rich and fatty, and of course, there are large amounts of sugary sweets and desserts to be had. If you want to try every dish at a party, make sure you take small portions and try not to stuff yourself. As soon as you begin to feel full, it is time to stop. Also, keep an eye on your alcohol intake. Set a limit on drinks, and stick to it!

5. Schedule “me” time.

Amongst all the friends and family, be sure to plan an hour here and there when you can be by yourself to relax and unwind. Sometimes we get so caught up trying to please others over the holidays, that we neglect our own needs. Give yourself the gift of some quality ‘’me” time. Trust us: You’ll love it.

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Bio: Liz Watson is a Brand Marketing Manager at 2U Inc. In her free time Liz enjoys traveling, doing the Sloppy Swish, and blogging on Biz Watson.

This is a sponsored post from our friends at 2U.