How to Stress Less This Holiday Season: Secrets for a Peaceful December
The holiday season is here, and while it can be magical, it also has a reputation for bringing stress along for the ride. Between decorating, cooking, hosting, and the endless pursuit of perfection, it’s no wonder many of us feel overwhelmed. But what if this year could be different? Inspired by Secrets for Less Stress, here are my top tips to help you find more peace and joy during December without losing your mind.
1. Let Go of the Holiday Perfection Trap
The holidays come with an unspoken pressure to make everything flawless—from Instagram-worthy decor to a perfectly curated dinner menu. But as I explain in my book, perfection is an illusion that keeps us stuck in stress mode.
Instead of striving for perfection this year, focus on connection. Will your family remember a crooked Christmas tree or the time spent laughing together? Will your friends notice that the cookies weren’t homemade, or will they cherish the moments you shared?
Try This: Pick one or two holiday traditions that truly bring you joy and let the rest go. It’s okay to say no to activities or decor that feel like obligations.
2. Answer the Eternal Question: "What’s for Dinner?"
Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, mealtime planning can be one of the biggest stressors of the season. As I mention in Secrets for Less Stress, the key is simplifying your approach.
Stick to tried-and-true recipes rather than experimenting with a complex dish.
Embrace shortcuts like pre-prepped ingredients or store-bought sides.
If hosting, consider a potluck to share the workload.
Give this a try: Use a holiday meal planner to organize dishes, shopping lists, and prep schedules. You’ll thank yourself later!
3. A Clean House Without the Holiday Meltdown
Hosting family or friends? The pressure to have a spotless home can feel crushing. But as I share in Chapter 8, the secret is to focus on the areas that matter most.
Instead of trying to deep clean the entire house, prioritize “guest spaces” like the living room, dining room, and bathroom. Quick, simple tasks—like clearing clutter or lighting a festive candle—can make your home feel warm and inviting without hours of scrubbing.
Here’s what I suggest: Keep a small basket handy to quickly collect clutter before guests arrive. Tuck it out of sight, and voila—instant tidy!
4. Don’t Forget the Greatest Gift: Self-Compassion
It’s easy to be hard on yourself when things don’t go as planned—burnt cookies, last-minute wrapping, forgotten gifts. But one of the most important lessons from my book is the power of self-compassion.
Take a moment to remind yourself that it’s okay to make mistakes. The holidays aren’t about being perfect; they’re about showing up and creating memories.
Seriously, Do This: Take five minutes each morning to breathe deeply, set an intention for the day, and give yourself grace.
Conclusion:
This December, let’s shift the focus from doing everything to doing what matters most. By embracing imperfection, simplifying your to-do list, and showing yourself a little love, you can rediscover the joy of the holidays.
For more tips on reducing stress, finding balance, and creating a more peaceful life—during the holidays and beyond—order your copy of Secrets for Less Stress today!