Making the holidays enjoyable for yourself is all about being intentional with how you spend your time, energy, and resources, and not feeling pressured by external expectations. While it’s easy to get swept up in the busy, social, and often overwhelming nature of the season, you have the power to create a holiday experience that truly nourishes you. Here are some ideas for making the holidays more enjoyable and fulfilling for you:
Focus on What Brings You Joy
The holidays don’t have to look like a Hallmark movie or the picture-perfect social media posts you see online. Instead, think about what truly brings you happiness and peace. Is it cozying up with a good book? Spending time outdoors? Cooking your favorite comfort food? Find small, simple pleasures that make the season feel meaningful to you, rather than trying to meet others’ expectations.
Tip: Make a list of things you enjoy about the holidays—whether it’s the smells of cinnamon, watching a certain holiday movie, or having quiet time alone—and prioritize those moments.
Create Your Own Traditions
If traditional holiday rituals don’t align with your needs, create your own. Whether it’s a solo day of relaxation, a holiday brunch with friends, or a peaceful walk in nature, crafting new traditions allows you to experience the season in a way that feels authentic to you. You don’t have to follow the crowd if you don’t want to.
Tip: Choose a new tradition this year that centers on what makes you feel good—whether it’s journaling about the year’s highlights, volunteering, or spending time in silence or nature.
Simplify Your To-Do List
The holiday season often comes with an overwhelming to-do list—decorating, shopping, attending events, cooking meals, wrapping gifts, etc. While it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing it all, the key is to simplify. Ask yourself: What’s truly important? What can you let go of? Choose only what will bring you joy and let go of the rest.
Tip: Delegate tasks when possible or consider giving simpler, more meaningful gifts rather than focusing on quantity or perfection.
Practice Gratitude
The holidays are an excellent time to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Focusing on gratitude can shift your mindset from stress to appreciation. Take time each day, even if it’s just for a few moments, to reflect on the positive things in your life, whether it’s a loving family member, good health, or a beautiful snowy day.
Tip: Start a gratitude journal during the holidays where you write down three things you’re grateful for each day. This can help keep your focus on the positive rather than the stressful or overwhelming parts of the season.
Let Go of Perfectionism
Many of us feel the pressure to make everything perfect during the holidays, from gifts to meals to social gatherings. But perfectionism often leads to stress, anxiety, and disappointment. Instead, focus on the joy of the moment rather than the outcome. Embrace imperfection and let go of the need for everything to be flawless.
Tip: If things don’t go as planned—whether it’s a burnt dinner or a less-than-perfect family gathering—remember that what truly matters is the connection and memories you create, not the details.
Nurture Your Mental Health
The holidays can trigger feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or sadness for many people. If you’re struggling, it’s important to prioritize your mental health. Make time for activities that help you stay grounded, whether it’s yoga, meditation, talking to a counselor, or practicing mindfulness.
Tip: Set aside moments each day for self-care. Whether it’s a calming ritual like drinking tea, deep breathing exercises, or taking a walk outside, make space for relaxation and emotional care.
Set Boundaries with Family and Friends
The holiday season often brings up complex family dynamics or the pressure to attend numerous social events. To enjoy the holidays, it’s essential to set clear and respectful boundaries. Be mindful of your emotional and physical limits, and don’t be afraid to say no to invitations or commitments that feel draining.
Tip: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, communicate your needs to loved ones. For example: “I’m so grateful for the invite, but I need some quiet time this year.” Protecting your well-being ensures you’ll enjoy the season more.
Stay Present in the Moment
The holidays can sometimes feel like a blur of events, to-do lists, and obligations. To truly enjoy the season, practice mindfulness and be present in the moment. Whether you’re decorating the tree, enjoying a meal, or chatting with a friend, try to savor the experience rather than rushing through it.
Tip: Take deep breaths and slow down. Try to notice the little details—the twinkling lights, the taste of your favorite holiday treat, the warmth of a cozy sweater. Being mindful helps you stay connected to the joy of the moment.
Give Yourself Permission to Rest
The holidays can easily turn into a non-stop marathon of events, shopping, cooking, and more. But rest is crucial to enjoying the season. Don’t be afraid to take breaks and rest when you need to. Whether it’s taking a nap, having a lazy day at home, or turning down social invitations to recharge, giving yourself permission to rest is vital for your overall enjoyment.
Tip: Schedule “down time” in your calendar, just as you would any other event or activity. Treat it as a non-negotiable part of your holiday season.
Focus on Connection, Not Perfection
Above all, the holidays are about connection—whether it’s with family, friends, or even yourself. Instead of getting caught up in the stress of making everything perfect, focus on creating moments of connection. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation, a shared meal, or a cozy moment by the fire, these are the moments that make the holidays meaningful.
Tip: If you’re spending time with loved ones, try to stay present and enjoy the little things. Let go of the pressure to make everything ideal, and embrace the authenticity of each moment.
Final Thought:
The holidays don’t have to be about living up to external expectations or being “busy” all the time. By prioritizing your own needs, focusing on what makes you feel happy and relaxed, and letting go of perfectionism, you can create a holiday season that is genuinely enjoyable and restorative for you. Whether it’s through simple pleasures, meaningful traditions, or peaceful solitude, the holidays can be a time of joy, reflection, and self-care when you choose to make them that way.
