5 coping tools to manage holiday stress that DON'T suck.
5 Tips to Manage Holiday Stress That Don’t Suck
Ah, the holidays. A magical time of year filled with twinkling lights, festive music, and... stress. Let’s face it—between family dynamics, gift-giving pressure, and the sheer chaos of holiday prep, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
I don’t know about you, but I see some pretty cringe advice out there when it comes to managing stress around the holidays. “Just be positive”, “stick to your routine!”, or my favourite “just be grateful you’re not…”. While these tips are given with positive intentions (I truly believe most people are good), I think it falls short because they don’t feel like they really addressing the root of the problem. And honestly, Stress management advice should be realistic, actionable, and tailored to your actual life—not some idealized version of the holidays!
Here are five tips to survive (and even enjoy!) the holidays without losing your mind.
1. Say "No" Like You Mean It
One of the biggest stressors during the holidays is overcommitting. Between parties, family gatherings, and last-minute favors, your calendar fills up fast. Here’s the trick: practice saying "no" without guilt.
How to do it:
Be polite but firm: “Thanks for inviting me, but I can’t make it this year.”
Prioritize what truly matters to you. You don’t owe anyone your time just because it’s the holidays.
Why it works:
Saying “no” gives you the space to focus on what’s important—like spending time with people you actually enjoy or just binge-watching your favorite show in peace.
2. Stop Trying to Be Martha Stewart
Let’s get one thing straight: no one’s holidays are actually perfect, no matter what Instagram tells you. Let go of the pressure to cook the most elaborate meal or have a Pinterest-worthy tree.
How to do it:
Delegate tasks (yes, your partner or kids can hang ornaments).
Opt for shortcuts, like pre-made sides or digital cards.
Accept that some things (like those lopsided cookies) don’t need to be perfect.
Why it works:
Done is better than perfect, and no one will remember your holiday decor in three months anyway.
3. Protect Your Peace
Family gatherings can be... complicated. Whether it’s Aunt Karen’s unsolicited advice or the same political argument playing on repeat, setting boundaries is key.
How to do it:
Prepare an “exit strategy” for conversations that feel draining: “Excuse me, I need to grab more pie!”
Limit your time in emotionally charged environments.
Have a go-to relaxation activity (like a walk or deep breathing) to recharge.
Why it works:
You can’t control other people, but you can control how much of their energy you let in. Boundaries are a form of self-care.
4. Shop Like a Pro
Holiday shopping doesn’t have to involve maxing out your credit card or enduring packed malls. Simplify your approach to gift-giving.
How to do it:
Set a budget and stick to it.
Try experience gifts (like a movie night) instead of physical items.
Shop online early to avoid the shipping crunch.
Why it works:
The best gifts come from the heart, not from how much you spend or how trendy they are. Bonus: less financial stress = more holiday cheer.
5. Create Your Own Traditions
If old holiday traditions feel more like obligations, it’s time to start your own. This season is about joy, not just repeating the past.
How to do it:
Try something new, like a pajama brunch or a holiday hike.
Make it about connection, not consumerism—host a potluck or watch a classic movie together.
Let go of traditions that no longer serve you.
Why it works:
When you focus on what makes you happy, the holidays become less stressful and more meaningful.
Final Thoughts
Managing holiday stress doesn’t mean avoiding the season altogether—it’s about approaching it in a way that feels authentic and manageable for you. By setting boundaries, simplifying where you can, and prioritizing what truly matters, you’ll make it through the holidays with your sanity (mostly) intact.
Remember: the holidays aren’t about perfection. They’re about connection, joy, and maybe a little egg nog.
What’s your go-to way to handle holiday stress? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear it!
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