Tara Leigh is a certified life coach, certified health coach, and success strategist who’s passionate about helping you simplify your life, declutter your mind, build better relationships, and create space for what matters most.
The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. Let’s change that this year! By focusing on what truly matters most and letting go of unnecessary stressors, you can create a holiday season filled with peace, presence, and joy.
10 practical tips to help you
1. Decide to do things differently
We often make things more complicated than they need to be. It’s easy to buy into the more is better mentality. This year, why not make a conscious decision to do things differently? By prioritizing simplicity and focusing on what matters most, you will reduce stress and set yourself up for success.
2. Be intentional with your time
How do you want to spend your time this holiday season? Whether it’s cozy nights at home, festive outings, simplifying meals, or baking up a storm, focus on what matters most to you. Say no to invitations or commitments that don’t align with your priorities. It’s important to protect your time and your peace. You don’t have to please everyone, and most likely even if you tried, you wouldn’t be able to.
3. Limit gift-giving to only what feels right
Gift-giving should come from the heart, not from a sense of obligation. Let go of the pressure to buy gifts for extended family, co-workers, and acquaintances unless doing so brings you joy. Take an honest look at your gift list and include only those you genuinely want to give to. Release any quilt you may feel for trimming your list – and remember your time and resources matter too.
4. Set a gift and spending budget
Overspending can dampen the holiday spirit once the bills roll in. Create a reasonable budget and stick to it to avoid post-holiday financial stress. Staying mindful while shopping ensures you will feel more at peace both now and later.
5. Decorate only to the extent you want to, not to the social media ideal
Not everyone has the time or the money to make their home look picture-perfect for the holidays, and that’s ok. Your holiday décor should reflect your style and energy, no one else’s. Whether you prefer subtle touches with only a few curated items or a home filled with twinkling lights and bountiful decorations, do what makes you the happiest and let go of what anyone else may think or expect from you.
6. Skip holiday cards if you don't truly enjoy sending them
Sending cards is a lovely tradition, but only if it’s meaningful to you. If it’s something you’re dreading or doing out of obligation, consider giving yourself permission to skip it this year. Your energy is precious – spend it where it matters most.
7. Release expectations
The holidays often come with unspoken expectations. Letting go of these expectations can bring tremendous relief. With all we do for the holidays, we can get lost in the expectations of how things are “supposed” to be. But having expectations will almost always leave us feeling disappointed. Leave the expectations behind and live in the moment, whatever that ends up looking like, and I guarantee you will experience more joy.
8. Maintain healthy habits
Your well-being is your foundation, especially during the busy holiday season. Stick to your exercise routine, nourish your body with wholesome foods, and ensure you’re getting quality sleep. Don’t underestimate the power of self-care—whether it’s a moment of quiet reflection, a walk outdoors, or a rejuvenating activity that fuels your spirit. While the holidays can feel hectic, scheduling these habits into your day will keep you balanced and energized, helping you show up as your best self.
9. Embrace forgiveness
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful gifts you can give yourself. Holding on to past hurts or anger weighs you down and drains your energy. It’s not always easy but letting go allows you to reclaim your power and embrace the present moment. By releasing the burden of the past, you can move forward with peace. This holiday season, consider how practicing forgiveness could open the door to greater joy.
10. Focus on the true meaning of the season
It’s not the gifts, the parties, or the food, it’s the connection, the love, and the gratitude that truly makes the season special. Whether it’s through faith, family, or quiet moments of reflection, find a way to connect with what the season truly means to you. Then embrace it for all it’s worth.
Take these steps to heart and design a holiday season that feels right for you. With a little intention and a lot of self-compassion, you can create memories that truly bring joy and happiness, while leaving the stress behind.
Start your journey today
Feeling overwhelmed can take a toll on you but it doesn’t have to be your normal state of being. You don’t have to continue living with overwhelm, anxiety, and stress. You have the power to rewrite your narrative. If you're ready to embark on a journey to create more peace in your life and live to the fullest, reach out to Tara here for information on her 90-day program From Overwhelmed to Overjoyed. You’ll have a partner in success every step of the way while getting unstuck, achieving your goals, and embracing your true potential.
Read more from Tara Leigh
Tara Leigh, Certified Life Coach + Success Strategist
Tara Leigh is a leader in personal development, simplification, and mindset mastery. She has been a life coach for 20+ years and is dedicated to helping others simplify their lives, declutter their minds, build better relationships, and create greater success both personally and professionally. She teaches you how to take back control of your life and live on purpose, rather than on auto-pilot, so you can live a life you truly love and leave the stress behind!
