Seasonal traditions and making merry with family and friends can be completely overwhelming — a winter whirlwind of events to attend and to-do lists to complete. In fact, more than 80% of Americans find the holiday season to be “somewhat” or “very” stressful, according to an About.com poll.

So as you plan celebrations and gift giving, try to avoid the stress and consider these tips that can help keep you organized, spirited — and best of all, relaxed and ready to enjoy the season.

Start the day with a smile

The holidays are a season of giving and sharing. Treat your coworkers to a cup of coffee or holiday treat, or simply wish a stranger a happy holiday season. An unexpected surprise for a friend will make his or her day and also keep your spirits high.

Be ready for anything

Alleviate last-minute stress by preparing for the inevitable surprises. Have plenty of goodies on hand in case a visitor stops by unexpectedly. You don’t have to go out of your way. Stock up on essentials like your favorite holiday snack mix, candy and gourmet coffee blends.

Personalize it

Make every gift stand out with personalized wrapping paper — and let your children make their own holiday cards to send and give out. Jenn Sbranti, editor-in-chief and founder of Hostess with the Mostess, recommends using creative rubber stamps or stencils with festive-colored inks and paints to decorate cards, gift tags and wrapping paper with everyone’s favorite holiday images and wintery designs. Make it a party.

Give gifts that everyone will love

Most everybody has at least a few people on their gift lists who can’t go a day without their favorite coffee, tea or espresso beverage. Look no further than the coffee shop around the corner for a gift that everyone loves, like a new coffee mug, travel tumbler or a gift card. Quick and easy, these gifts are no-brainers and sure to please. And there’s a Starbucks or Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf seemingly around every corner.

Treat yourself

Remember to do something nice for yourself, too. Whether it’s indulging in quiet time with a new book by the fire or having an afternoon treat, take time to relax and enjoy the holiday season.

Give back

Make a donation, big or small, to your favorite charity. Whether it’s giving to a local animal shelter or contributing to the neighborhood food bank, every bit helps and there’s nothing more fulfilling — or in keeping with the spirit — than giving back during the holiday season.

Start fun new traditions

Instead of the same old holiday cookies, create a major “wow” factor with festive presentations. Display freshly baked and creatively decorated cookies in pretty boxes lined with gift-wrapcovered Styrofoam. Your creations will look like they came from a professional pastry chef and stand out among all the traditional cookie baskets.

Plan a holiday movie night

Introduce your kids to the classics. From “Miracle on 34th Street” to “It’s a Wonderful Life,” these movies are sure to bring back fond memories for you and create a memorable impression on your kids. Maybe balance it out with a few of their more recent favorites, instant classics like “Elf” and “Polar Express.”

Plan ahead for travel

Airport delays and long flights can take their toll. Keep your energy level up and frustrations down, even in the most trying of circumstances, by bringing along a favorite pair of cozy socks and pocketful of comfort snacks; invest in noisecancelling headphones and a good book, fire up the iPod and let your cares fly away.

Recharge with a nonholiday day

You’ll enjoy the hustle and bustle of the season more if you refresh yourself with a break, a day full of non-holiday-related activities. Hit the salon, check out that exhibit you’ve been eyeing at the museum, take in a movie or take a leisurely stroll in the park. A day away to recharge might well be the best cure for seasonal stress and frustration.

—ARA Content