Navigating the Emotional Stress of the Holiday Season

The holiday season can be a time of joy and togetherness, but it can also bring emotional stress, heightened expectations, and pressure to create "perfect" moments. It’s important to give yourself grace and remember that it’s okay if the holidays feel challenging. Here are some reminders and tips to help you find balance and peace during this time of year.
 
1. It’s Okay to Feel What You Feel
The holidays can evoke a range of emotions, from happiness to sadness, overwhelm to simple joy. Whether you’re grieving a loss, navigating family dynamics, or simply feeling drained by the season's demands, remind yourself that your feelings are valid. Because of the togetherness that is involved in the holidays, stressful relationships and even some history of trauma may surface. You don’t have to force yourself to feel merry when it’s not authentic – ESPECIALLY when it is not authentic. Be honest with yourself and lean on the people who care about you. Talk to your friends, or find a therapist to process through the complexity of your feelings.
 
2. Focus on Joyful Memories and Experiences
Shift your attention to creating experiences that genuinely make you happy. Whether it’s baking cookies with loved ones, watching your favorite holiday movies, or taking a peaceful walk or drive to admire holiday lights, prioritize activities that bring you joy and peace and let go of the pressure to do things that you think you should be doing.
 
3. Rediscover the Meaning of the Season
It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of shopping, decorating, and presenting a picture-perfect holiday. Instead, focus on the deeper meaning of the season—connection, gratitude, and giving. Let go of societal pressures to create moments for social media; instead, create moments for yourself and those you love.
 
4. Reevaluate Traditions
Traditions can be wonderful, but not all of them may still serve you. Take stock of the ones that bring you joy and consider letting go of those that feel like a chore. There is so much pressure to do what has always been done, and sometimes those things no longer bring us happiness. It’s okay to redefine what the holidays mean for you and your family and create new traditions. There is always time to reminisce and reflect on the moments that brought joy in the past while also letting go of the pressure to continue doing the same things today.
 
5. Let Go of Perfection
Perfection is an illusion, especially during the holidays. No tree, table setting, or gift will ever be flawless. Embrace the imperfections and remember that connection and authenticity matter far more than any idealized vision. Ten years from now, you will not remember how perfect you wrapped the gift, but you will remember the happiness you felt in shared experiences with those you love.
 
6. Set Boundaries and Prioritize Your Needs
Holiday gatherings and commitments can be overwhelming. Make space to check in with yourself and set boundaries when needed. Politely decline events or tasks that feel like too much. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
 
7. Reframe Gift Giving
If you are anything like me, you identify GIVING gifts as your love language. Gift giving should be a source of joy, not a competition. Choose meaningful, thoughtful gifts within your means, and don’t compare yourself to others. Remember, the act of giving is about love and thoughtfulness, not extravagance. Sometimes it can help to think outside the box too and give the gift of your time and shared experiences.  Those memories will last longer than a sweater or a toy.
 
8. Take Breaks
Amid the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to rest. Whether it’s sitting down with a cup of tea, taking a few deep breaths, or enjoying quiet time alone, regular breaks can help you recharge and stay present. One of my favorite things to do during the Christmas season is to play quiet Christmas music, sit with my dog with a cup of tea and a good book, and enjoy a cozy fire and my sparkling Christmas tree.
 
9. Make Time for the People Who Matter Most
Spend time with those who bring you happiness and fulfillment. Whether it’s close friends, family, or a partner, prioritize relationships that nourish you and make you feel seen and supported and let go of the people that bring you anxiety and stress.
 
10. Have Fun
The holidays are ultimately about joy. Allow yourself to laugh, play, and embrace the wonder of the season in ways that resonate with you. Fun doesn’t have to be extravagant—simple pleasures often bring the most delight.  Watch your favorite movies, bake your favorite cookies, and sing your favorite songs.
 
The holiday season doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. By prioritizing what truly matters and being kind to yourself, you can navigate this time of year with more peace, joy, fulfillment, and maybe even a little magic too.