Tips for Enjoying the Holiday Season

The holidays are here and while reuniting with family and shopping for holiday gifts can be the best of times, there's no denying the stress that can often come with these festivities. From financial advice to mental health tips, we hope this blog helps you thrive this holiday season.



Reflect on what is important to you during the holidays. Sitting and thinking about what you want for yourself and/or your family this holiday season could be very beneficial. This can lead to more intentionality regarding who you’re spending time with and what you’re doing. If you value having a meaningful holiday, giving yourself the time to determine what will make it meaningful is extremely valuable. While it may change each year, this reflection can help steer your holiday season in the right direction.

Communicate clearly how others can assist or support you. When family members or friends offer to help you wrap, cook, or shop…accept! Sometimes people may be unsure how best to help as needs and wants change so frequently from year to year. When people understand clearly what you need, they are happy to help and are able to make the time to provide ample support.

Manage your spending. The holidays tend to make us feel the pressure of consumerism. One way to decrease the financial burden is by setting and sticking to a budget. Thoughtfulness doesn’t always have to mean a hefty price tag. By initiating a Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchange in place of buying every individual a gift. Some other options include giving to a favorite charity in the name of a family member or providing gift certificates for things like snow shoveling, baby sitting, a home-cooked meal, movie night, or other time together.

Manage your expectations for family gatherings. Before a gathering, think through your boundaries, what you need, and what you can be flexible on. With different generations and multiple families in one place celebrating all together, it can sometimes lead to conflict or not feeling heard or understood.

Realize the holiday season is a marathon, not a sprint. With the many social gatherings this time of year, it can be easy to begin compromising your physical or mental health by doing too much. Be sure to pace yourself, practice saying “no” without remorse, and allow yourself to deal with missing out on some outings. Remember to pace yourself this holiday season.