- Soulful Living
Easy Ways to Stress Less During the Holidays
- December 24, 2024
The holidays have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, they were a time of joy, connection, and laughter—days filled with delicious meals and cherished traditions. But as I stepped into adulthood, especially as a business owner and a restaurateur managing multiple responsibilities, the holidays started to feel less like a celebration and more like a never-ending to-do list.
For years, I found myself dreading this supposedly joyous season. Hosting large gatherings, cooking elaborate meals, and trying to ensure everything was “perfect” left me completely drained. As much as I love creating delicious dishes and bringing people together, the added pressure of meeting everyone’s expectations turned the holidays into a source of stress rather than happiness.
If this sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone. According to the American Psychological Association, 9 in 10 say that concerns such as not having enough money, missing loved ones and anticipating family conflict cause them stress at this time of year, It’s ironic that a time meant for joy and celebration can leave us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. But over the years, I’ve learned how to reclaim the holidays for what they’re truly meant to be: a season of love, gratitude, and connection.
Here are some simple, actionable ways to stress less during the holidays—and truly enjoy them.
1. Embrace the Power of Simplifying
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that “more” doesn’t always mean “better.” Early on, I believed that hosting meant everything had to be perfect—meticulously planned meals, intricate decorations, and an ideal schedule. But striving for perfection often left me feeling defeated.
Now, I focus on what truly matters. Instead of trying to cook a multi-course feast, I stick to a few signature dishes that I know everyone loves (and that I enjoy making!). I delegate tasks, like asking guests to bring desserts or drinks, which not only lightens my load but makes the gathering more collaborative.
Practical Tip:
Make a list of non-negotiables for the holidays—things that genuinely bring you joy. Then, let go of anything that feels like an unnecessary obligation.
2. Set Boundaries with Your Time and Energy
As a restaurateur and mentor, I know how easy it is to overcommit—especially during the holidays. There’s always another event to attend, another task to check off the list, or another opportunity to say “yes.” But here’s the truth: You can’t pour from an empty cup.
I started setting boundaries by prioritizing my own well-being. For example, I schedule “quiet days” during the season—time to recharge without any social or work commitments. This helps me show up more fully for the moments that matter.
Practical Tip:
When you receive an invitation or a request, pause before saying yes. Ask yourself, “Does this align with my values and priorities for the season?” If the answer is no, it’s okay to decline graciously.
3. Practice Holiday Self-Care
Self-care during the holidays isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. The constant hustle and bustle can take a toll on your mental and physical health if you’re not mindful. I’ve learned to incorporate simple rituals into my daily routine to stay grounded, even during the busiest times.
For me, it’s as simple as a 10-minute meditation in the morning or a walk in the fresh air to clear my mind. These small moments of mindfulness help me reconnect with the joy of the season.
Practical Tip:
Choose one or two self-care practices that resonate with you—whether it’s journaling, taking a bubble bath, or practicing gratitude—and commit to them daily.
4. Let Go of Unrealistic Expectations
The holidays often come with unspoken expectations: the perfect family photo, the flawless dinner, or the ultimate gift. For years, I struggled with this, thinking I had to live up to an ideal that didn’t exist.
The turning point came when I realized that the people who love us don’t care about perfection—they care about presence. Once I shifted my focus from creating perfect experiences to cherishing real moments, the holidays became infinitely more enjoyable.
Practical Tip:
Remind yourself that it’s okay if things don’t go as planned. Imperfections often make the best memories!
5. Reflect on What the Holidays Truly Mean to You
At the heart of it all, the holidays are about connection—whether it’s with loved ones, your community, or yourself. When I started focusing on gratitude and the true spirit of the season, the stress naturally melted away.
One tradition I’ve adopted is taking time to reflect on the year that’s passed and set intentions for the one ahead. This practice not only grounds me but also brings a sense of purpose to the season.
Practical Tip:
Spend a few quiet moments journaling about what the holidays mean to you. Write down what you’re grateful for and what you want to carry forward into the new year.
6. Ask for Help
As someone who’s used to doing it all, asking for help didn’t come naturally to me. But one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay to lean on others. Whether it’s enlisting family members to help cook or hiring a professional to take care of small details, sharing the workload can make a world of difference.
Practical Tip:
Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks, whether it’s asking someone to pick up groceries or having guests bring a dish to share. Collaboration makes the experience richer for everyone.
7. Focus on What Brings You Joy
At the end of the day, the holidays are meant to be a celebration—not a chore. By focusing on what truly brings you joy, you can create a season that feels meaningful and fulfilling.
For me, it’s sharing a simple meal with loved ones, lighting candles that fill the house with warmth, and laughing over old family stories. These moments are what make the holidays special—not the perfectly wrapped gifts or the Pinterest-worthy table settings.
Practical Tip:
Create a list of “holiday joys” that bring you happiness, like listening to your favourite carols, baking cookies, or watching nostalgic movies. Make time for these small but meaningful traditions.
Stress during the holidays is common, but it doesn’t have to define your experience. By simplifying, setting boundaries, practicing self care, and focusing on what matters most, you can reclaim the season as a time of joy, connection, and renewal. The holidays should be a reflection of your values—not a race to meet societal expectations. So this year, let go of perfection, embrace imperfection, and give yourself the gift of a stress-free, joyful holiday season.
Remember, it’s not about doing it all—it’s about doing what matters. And that’s a holiday worth celebrating!
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I'm Lavanya Mahate
Lavanya Mahate is a Soulpreneur, entrepreneur, restaurateur, mentor, podcaster, speaker, and heart-centered business woman. Her journey is one where passion fuels purpose and tradition blends seamlessly with innovation. From managing ten vibrant restaurants to guiding women on their entrepreneurial paths, Lavanya’s mission is to inspire soulful living and purposeful growth. Through her writing, she shares wisdom and strategies to empower individuals to lead with authenticity, balance, and joy in both personal and professional spheres.
