Getting engaged is an exciting time but wedding planning can quickly become stressful. Don’t let what should be an enjoyable experience put a strain on you, your relationships or your finances. Here’s my advice for keeping the pressure of wedding planning manageable.
Taking care of relationships
Your wedding may be the biggest focus in your life right now, but friends and family members have other priorities too. Don’t expect everyone to dedicate all their attention to your big day. Be sympathetic to what is going on in their lives if you want them to be supportive of you.
On the other hand, if friends or family members are taking too much interest and forcing their opinions and ideas on you, then you need to address this. Politely tell them that you appreciate their input but you have your own vision for the day.
Taking care of finances
It can be easy to get carried away with wedding plans but you don’t want to begin married life with debts you can’t afford to pay. Before you go out and blow a fortune, sit down with your partner and plan a budget. Prioritise the things that are most important and don’t spend money on things you don’t need.
Taking care of your partner
The stress of wedding planning can often come between couples, causing conflict and even resulting in the breakdown of a relationship. Remember that your wedding day is also your partner’s wedding day and decisions should be made together. This might involve compromise for both of you and communication is vital. Talk to each other and focus on the bigger picture.
Taking care of anxiety
Some people love the idea of being the centre of attention but for others, being in the spotlight causes fear and anxiety. If you or your partner are anxious about the day, then you need to talk it through. If you are concerned about nerves affecting your enjoyment, then coaching could help.
Taking care of yourself
In the lead up to the big day, balancing your usual commitments with organising all the last-minute arrangements may become overwhelming. Late night planning, sleepless nights and nerves about the day could all affect your health. Look after yourself; try to remain calm, eat properly and get plenty of sleep.
You don’t have to do it alone
Managing the demands of life and work can be difficult enough without the extra pressure of organising a wedding. Working with a life coach could help you keep things in perspective and maintain balance.
As a life coach, I have had experience with dealing with the feeling of being overwhelmed at what should be an exciting time. If you want some help getting things back on track, then I’d love to hear from you. I offer one on one coaching and support, as well as group coaching at my monthly coaching club.