We all know the holiday commercials: sparkling lights, cozy families, matching pajamas… zero stress in sight. If only, right? In real life, the holidays can feel less like a snow globe and more like a snowstorm – hectic, chaotic (gotta get that bread and milk!), exhausting (all that shoveling…) and just something to suffer through.
If this season tends to leave you overwhelmed instead of overjoyed, you’re in good company. And the good news? A calmer, more enjoyable holiday is possible.
Why the Holidays Feel So Hard
- The expectations! Everywhere you look, someone’s doing the holidays “better.” (Spoiler: They’re not.) Instagram and Pinterest are NOT your friends!
- Stuffed schedules that make your calendar look like the waistband on your “hard” pants after the holidays – bloated and tight.
- Budget blowouts. Gifts, travel, food, more food… your wallet is sweating and January is looking tight. (Maybe make a donation in someone’s name and take that end-of-year tax deduction?)
- Family dynamics. Enough said.
- The endless “shoulds.” I should bake, host, decorate, attend, sparkle, smile… It’s time to stop “shoulding” all over yourself!
Let’s Make This Season Easier (and Actually Enjoyable)
- Redefine “wonderful.” What do you want this season to feel like? Cozy? Calm? Low-key? Start there. Ask your family what traditions they find the most fun and most rewarding. It’s probably not every single thing you think you have to do.
- Simplify like a pro. Buy the cookies. Skip the event. Let go of the traditions that drain you. No guilt. (see above.)
- Give your budget some love. A little planning now prevents January regret later. And stop buying stuff just to give something. Truly, no one really needs another mug, another candle, or more scented lotion. Think experiences that allow people to enjoy spending time together doing something they love that won’t clutter up their home later.
- Protect your time. “No” is a complete sentence—and a holiday survival skill. Remember that everything you say No to opens up space for you to be able to say Yes! to something better (and maybe an evening at home watching a Hallmark movie is “something better” – yes?)
- Feel what you feel. You don’t have to be merry on command. Holidays can be emotional and bring up difficult feelings. Take some time to be kind to yourself and allow yourself to feel without judgment.
- Do what fills your cup. Rest, laughter, one meaningful tradition, or an evening doing absolutely nothing – YES, please!
A memorable holiday doesn’t need to be picture-perfect. The holidays don’t need your exhaustion, they need your presence. Protect your time, energy, and money so you can enjoy the season. January you will thank you.
