People who do the "holiday thing" (i.e. decorating, gift exchanges, parties, shopping, etc.), what are some tips you can offer for avoiding stress during this busy season?

Every holiday season I am busy with work and trying to shop, decorate, go to parties, visit, etc. Working full time makes it an extra busy season for me, as it does for many people.

People who do the holiday season thing: How do you handle the holiday season and what are some tips you can offer for surviving this busy, stressful time?

I specifically aimed this question at “people who do the holiday thing” because I am trying to avoid answers like “I don’t do it” as they would not be helpful.