As the holiday season approaches, people are off running and trying to find the perfect gift for loved ones. They spend hours upon hours in different stores looking at the same things and ultimately deciding whether or not to get it. Some of you may be thinking that that doesn't sound like you at all, while others are thinking that that is exactly who I am. The holidays can be a very stressful time of year.

Whether you're working a full time job or studying for college finals all week, this time of year is stressful to everyone. There is so much to get done with little time to do it. You're tired, cranky, and you just want to watch Christmas movies 24/7. Although you might have little time to do it, you need to take time for yourself and do things that make you happy. You have to take care of yourself. I know this might sound crazy, but the holiday season isn't meant to be stressful. I know, crazy right? And don't get me wrong, I totally understand how people are stressed. I just finished my first semester of college and with six finals, I truly thought I wasn't going to make it. But look, here I am surviving and thriving.

This time of year isn't supposed to be about worrying about the perfect gifts, getting an A on a test, or working overkill. This time of year is supposed to be magical and full of happiness. This is the time when you spend time with your family baking Christmas cookies, this is the time when you get together with your high school best friends who you haven't seen in months because you have been at college, this is the time of year when you truly appreciate everything you have been blessed with.

So instead of worrying and stressing out about the small things, focus on the good and the things that make you happy. Go drive around looking at the Christmas lights, have a movie night with your friends drinking hot chocolate and watching The Grinch, have an ugly sweater party, bake 300 Christmas cookies, and decorate your Christmas tree. Do the things that Christmas is supposed to be about, and at the end of the day, don't forget the true reason for this magical season.