4 Ways to Make Yourself a Priority During the Holidays

Alicia Schmitt
Dec 8, 2021
3 min read

It's the hap-happiest season of all, and while holiday time is wonderful, it's also busy as heck! Burn out is real. Many of us have a multitude of tasks we're responsible for on a daily basis. At the end of the year, our to-do list gets even longer, and self-care is put on the back burner.

Now is a great to put others before yourself, don't forget that you can't pour from an empty cup! If you give and give without any replenishing, you're going to crumble. Mental and physical health can take a serious hit, and I don't want that for you. Here are 4 ways I want you to prioritize your well-being during the holidays, and I'm showing off Babe A's session while we're at it cuz why not?!

Say No to Extra Activities and Yes to What Brings You Joy

I'm giving you permission to say no! You do not have to volunteer for every activity, attend all the Christmas festivities, and make it to every family member's Christmas. You're being pulled in a million different directions, and it's so much better to say no to what doesn't bring you joy and yes to what does. You do not have to do it all, and remember, "no" is a complete sentence. You don't need to justify why you are unable to do something. Other great responses are "I'm unable to fit anything else into my schedule" and "You're so kind to think of me, but I can't."

Avoid Toxic Family

This one is easier said than done. If you have unsupportive, hateful or toxic family members, you do not have to see them this Christmas. I do not believe that blood is thicker than water. You are under no obligation to spend time with someone just because you share some genetics. You can go no contact or let family know you won't be able to make it to Christmas. You don't need a reason why. You don't need to explain yourself. Just don't go. If it's going to be better for you and your mental health to not see certain people, don't see them. If you absolutely have to see family members you don't like, give yourself an out so at any time you can leave the event without pushback. Use your pet as an out or say you're not feeling well. Honesty is great too, but if you're not emotionally prepared for all the drama that comes with that, use any excuse you want to leave. Eventually, you might want the closure that comes from explaining to a toxic family member why they can't be in your life anymore, but I totally understand if the holidays isn't the time you want to do that.

Make Simple Meals

Fed is better than not fed at all! During the holidays, we're all busy with cooking, cleaning, baking etc. The meals I would normally make for my dinner or lunch feel too exhausting during December, so I'm opting for simpler meals. My Crockpot has been sitting on my counter for the last month, and I'm using that baby all the time! One pan meals, Crockpot dinners, frozen meals, and even take out are all WAY better options than skipping meals.

Stick to Your Budget

Money is such a huge stresser. Do you know how much you can spend on Christmas? Do you know what your budget is for gifts, food and activities? It doesn't matter if it's a big number or little number - what is important is that you know. At the end of the month when the VISA bill arrives, you shouldn't be overwhelmed. I know budgeting isn't fun, but like a lot of self care, it's necessary. Sit down before you go Christmas shopping and figure out where you comfort level is regarding your budget.

Care for yourself now and all year! You deserve to be a priority in your life. I hope these tips helped and that you have the happiest of holidays!