The holiday season is the time for family and cheer, but between decorating, cooking and shopping for presents, it can be overwhelming. 41% of adults in the U.S. reported feeling increasingly stressed during this time. 43% said that the stress of the holidays interferes with their ability to enjoy them. Additionally, 36% said the holidays feel like a competition. Despite our best intention, it is easy for stress to overshadow the magic of the season. But there are plenty of simple and intentional practices you can adopt to create a holiday season that feels calmer and more meaningful to you.

Accepting Imperfection

The holiday often comes with high expectations which can create unnecessary pressure. We expect everything to go perfectly, and often feel disappointed when things don’t go to plan. However, by practicing telling ourselves that it is okay if it is not perfect, allows us to have a more enjoyable experience. When we accept that perfection isn’t the standard, we can focus on what really matters: love, connection and joy.

Create Moments For Yourself

Amid the holiday hustle and bustle, it is important to take a second to pour back into you. Prioritize moments of quiet, reflection and mindfulness. Whether that is enjoying a cup of tea or taking a walk, these moments are a chance to reconnect with the present. Studies found that practicing these techniques helps direct your attention away from stressful and anxious thoughts, allowing you to enjoy the season more fully.

Limit Comparison

It is easy to compare ourselves to others during the holiday season whether through social media or within our friends and families. Seeing picture-perfect celebrations can trigger feelings of inadequacy and distract us from the joy of the season. Be gentle with yourself. It is okay if the turkey burns or if your home isn’t as decorated as others. By shifting your mindset to focus on your own values and what the holiday season truly means to you, you can free yourself from the pressure of measuring up to others.

By embracing imperfection, taking time for yourself, and limiting comparisons, you can create a magical holiday season with the traditions that matter to you.

BIO
Jasmine Walker is a digital media creator who assists with social media development. She is in her senior year of high school in Silver Spring, Maryland. Her hobbies include reading, creative writing, modern & ballet dance and drawing. She hopes to further develop her content management skills and pursue this field in college.