"When many people go into Christmas they build up expectations and can set themselves up for let-downs," says human behaviour expert John Demartini.
For a successful, stress-free Christmas set realistic expectations, plan ahead, stick to a budget and communicate with your loved ones.
"Don't put yourself in the position where you are giving and then resenting it," says the Demartini Institute founder from Texas.
"Make sure you don't over commit so you end up resenting Christmas and associate too much pain with it."
Buying meaningful Christmas presents doesn't mean spending a fortune - it means taking the time to figure out what your loved ones really want.
"One time I gave my mum a beautiful letter ... thanking her for all the things she had done in my life," says Demartini, who has written over 40 books.
"When she died she had that letter. That was the most meaningful Christmas present out of all the years that I was with her that I think she had ever gotten."
And if you don't know what to get someone don't be afraid to ask.
"I would have no problem in calling someone and saying `I would really like to do something that's meaningful because I don't want you to end up with a present that you just end up having to take back or throw away'," he says.
"Maybe it takes away some of the surprise but at least it shows you care about the person enough to give them something that is meaningful."
Never buy presents out of obligation, you will just end up resenting it.
"There is nothing more powerful that can compete with a man or a woman's memory of things that they feel they sacrificed for another person.
"We always remember that and we retaliate if we don't feel it's in fair exchange."
If you have extended family and friends descending on your house over the break lay down the ground rules early.
"Set down simple rules and guidelines like `take off shoes when you come into the house'," Demartini says.
"Even write down a list of rules and hand it out to visitors in advance. I think it's fun because it reduces the probability of aggravations."
When it comes to the kids don't overload them with stuff they don't need - just get them one or two meaningful presents."If you over-spoil the child you will pay the price later.
"I teach my kids that real life is about exchange but Christmas is about giving."
Most people ultimately just want to feel appreciated.
"Every human being wants to be loved and appreciated for who they are, and I think Christmas is a time where that can be a cornerstone."
