Christmas is a magical time but also can be stressful, so we’ve teamed up with Pete Cohen, a life coach, public speaker, TV presenter and bestselling author to ensure you have a happy and healthy Christmas. 

Money – Christmas can be a tough time financially, with people feeling the social pressure to spend a lot of money on gifts. If you’re struggling with debt break down your money issues to make them seem more manageable. Try booking in a meeting with a financial advisor or writing down your monthly out-goings vs your incomings. Taking small steps in the right direction will allow you to make smarter financial choices at Christmas time.

Family – Christmas is a time for spending with those you care about, but it is becoming more difficult to do things as a family unit due to distractions and time pressures. Try and come together during the festive season for a day of fun that everyone agrees to. Encourage everyone to turn off their phones and make it a time to remember, whether it’s Christmas day or not.

Food – Christmas is often a time for indulgence, but how can you make sure you don’t over-indulge and undo any progress you have made throughout the year? Think about the consequences of your actions. We often want instant gratification from eating something delicious and decadent, and don’t think about how we’re going to feel afterwards. Pause. Think and ask yourself a simple question- do I like this food enough? Can I live with the consequences of eating like this today, and every single day going forward?

Exercise – It’s hard to stick to your work out plan during the winter months, with the night’s drawing in and the freezing temperatures. Tell yourself that it will be difficult. If you think it’s going to be easy, you are more likely to give up. Get comfortable with a certain amount of discomfort and focus on how great you will feel afterwards, and how this focus and determination now is bringing you closer to the results you want.

Loneliness – If you, or a friend, are feeling stressed or alone during the festive season, make the effort to talk about how you’re feeling to someone. All too often we bottle up our emotions, and keep feelings to ourselves through fear of embarrassment or misunderstanding.

Shut The Duck Up is available from www.shut-the-duck-up.com priced £15