Festive and Fearless: The Top 10 to Avoid Holiday Burnout

'Whirlwind' is the only word that comes to mind when I think about the -ber months. The final 90 days of the year, where some of us are finding the energy to go out with a bang for the end of the year. Some of us dread it, because well, not all of us have the fondest memories of this season. Oh look! You've also got year-end work deadlines, social gatherings, and holiday planning. A wonderful little nest for burnout to fly in and make itself at home. Here are some practical strategies to stay balanced, keep your energy up, and keep that burnout nest empty. 

1. Set Clear Boundaries Early

Communicate with Family and Friends: Let loved ones know what you’re comfortable with in terms of time and activities, including hosting or attending gatherings.

Limit Time Commitments: Saying "no" when your plate is full is key to avoiding exhaustion. Prioritize the events that are most meaningful to you.

Work Boundaries: Resist the urge to overextend yourself at work. Block out vacation days early to make sure you get time off.

2. Get a Head Start on Holiday Planning

Start Shopping Early: I have a mom friend who hits the ground running the SECOND she sees that Amazon Holiday Wishlist for kids in her mailbox every October. She has them make a wish list of their top 10, shops from that list that night and sends the remainder of the list over to grandparents. She's like a cheetah in pursuit of a peaceful December.  

Delegate Holiday Tasks: If you’re hosting, delegate tasks like meal prep, decorating, and even cleanup. Asking for help can lessen the load and make hosting more enjoyable. Remember if you're doing fun holiday stuff it's because it makes your heart happy. Let's keep it happy. 

Automate and Outsource: From ordering pre-made dishes to scheduling gift deliveries, automate and outsource as much as possible. You can do it all, we know, but you don't have to. 

3. Create a Realistic Budget and Stick to It

Plan Financially: Make a holiday budget and try to track expenses. Keeping finances in check can significantly reduce holiday stress.

Embrace Meaningful over Material Gifts: Consider exchanging experiences instead of physical gifts, or setting a gift limit for family and friends. Experience gifts are popular right now. Your sister might appreciate an annual pass to the children's museum instead of loading her car with all the new gifts she's got to unpack, open and find batteries for. However, there is nothing more fun than finding out who your Secret Santa is, or an outrageous White Elephant gift exchange!

4. Prioritize Self-Care

Stay Active: Try to stick to your exercise routine, even if it’s just a quick walk or stretching session. Physical activity boosts endorphins, which is obviously incredible to combat holiday stress.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Dedicate a few minutes daily to mindfulness, prayer, meditation, or how about we just put all the screens way for a period of the day? You can do this!

Maintain Sleep Routine: Aim for consistent sleep, even if holiday events throw off your routine. Rest helps you recharge and reduces stress.

5. Make Time for Yourself

Protect "You" Time: Schedule alone time to recharge. Whether it’s reading, meditating, or simply relaxing, time alone is essential. A face mask or a slow drive to see a new decorated neighborhood is great for the heart.

Connect with Nature: Short walks outdoors in the crisp air or even just heading outside to get a deep breath in as you drink your coffee in the morning can help reset your mind and provide a break from the crazy and busy season.

6. Limit Holiday Expectations

Be Realistic with Traditions: Don’t feel pressured to fulfill every tradition or meet all expectations. Focus on those that bring you and your loved ones genuine joy.

Don’t Over-Schedule: Okay the FOMO is real here, but even the fear of missing out is worth your peace if you don't attend every single holiday event. Prioritize your functions, and if you feel that you can handle a little more fun, go ahead, but it's totally fine to stay home and cry over some hot chocolate while watching The Family Stone for the 56th time.

7. Practice Gratitude and Reflection

Start a Gratitude Practice: Each day, jot down a few things you’re grateful for. This small habit can help shift your mindset toward positivity and reduce stress.

Reflect on the Year: Take time to reflect on the past year—what went well, what didn’t, and what you’re looking forward to in the new year. Use this time for personal growth.

8. Break Up the Workload in October, November, and December

October: Organize and Prep: Use October to organize, clean, and prepare for the months ahead.

November: Prioritize and Simplify: Focus on keeping your schedule simple and efficient this month.

December: Slow Down and Reflect: Dedicate December to winding down. Shift focus from "doing" to "being."

9. Leverage Technology to Lighten Your Load

Use Apps to Stay Organized: Calendar apps, budgeting tools, and task managers can keep your schedule and finances on track.

Set Alarms and Reminders: A few strategic reminders can help avoid last-minute stress.

Streamline Communication: Use messaging apps or email for group updates to minimize time spent coordinating with family and friends.

10. Focus on Joy, Not Perfection

Accept Imperfection: We want our holidays to be as perfect as the string of holiday cards we have displayed on our walls. Somewhere in the world a turkey will burn, someone is celebrating for the first or fifth time without a loved one, laugh off the mishaps, enjoy the small bouts of joy. Take it all in. 

Take Mental Snapshots: Instead of obsessing over creating the “perfect” holiday, aim to capture small, happy moments in memory or with a few photos.

Remember that holiday joy doesn’t require running yourself to the point of no return. Embrace a season that reflects your values and priorities, and give yourself the gift of balance. By setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and focusing on what truly matters, you can keep burnout as far as possible and enjoy a fulfilling, peaceful end to the year. The holidays are about more than checklists and perfection. They’re an opportunity to connect, recharge, and reflect. Here’s to a season that brings you rest, joy, and a strong start to the new year ahead!