The holiday season can be a wonderful time to unwind, celebrate, and connect with loved ones. But between the hustle, expectations, and to-do lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This year, take a step back and focus on what truly matters with these practical strategies for reducing stress and making the most of your time.

1. Decide What’s Most Important 🌟
Think about what you really want this holiday season to feel like. Make a list of your usual holiday activities, then put the ones that matter most at the top. By focusing on what brings you joy and aligns with your values, you’ll set the tone for a more fulfilling season.

2. Be Intentional with Your Time 🕰️
Create both a *To-Do* list and a *Not-To-Do* list! Estimate how much time each task will take, and if it feels unrealistic, consider moving it to your *Not-To-Do* list. This approach can help you avoid overcommitting and keep your priorities in focus.

3. Watch Out for Perfectionism 🚫✨
It’s easy to get caught up in creating a “perfect” holiday, especially with social media showing highlight reels of ideal celebrations. Instead of striving for an unattainable image, focus on peace and meaningful moments. Remember, it’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned—what matters is the joy and connection.

4. Make a “Don’t List” 📋
Take a hard look at your to-do list and identify tasks that don’t add value or bring joy. Do you really need to bake cookies from scratch, or would store-bought ones save you time for more meaningful activities? By intentionally letting go of certain tasks, you create space for the things that matter most.

5. Lean on Your Community 🤝
Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Delegate or outsource tasks when possible, and remember that the people in your life are often more than willing to support you. When we share the load, we all get to enjoy the season more fully.

Slow Down, Simplify, and Savor the Season
The holidays should be about joy and connection, not stress and burnout. By making intentional decisions about your time and priorities, you can create a holiday season that feels balanced and fulfilling. This year, focus on what truly matters, and let the rest go.

Happy Holidays! 🎉

Note: This blog post was based off of a lesson in the Revitalize Member Library, created and led by Dr. Christina Shenvi founder of Time For Your Life - an excellent resource for time and stress management. Revitalize members can access the full lesson here.