If holiday preparations stress you out, there may be ways to reimagine your holiday in a new way. Below, you’ll find an easy three-step process to reduce your stress!

What is it about the holidays?

Holidays create pressure for women. Culturally women organize and create the holiday experiences for our families. And, the bar raises higher and higher with social media posts of “perfect” gatherings.

We set needlessly high expectations for ourselves.

The holidays are wonderful times to gather with the ones we love. And certainly, we want to create memories for our families and friends.

But, if you’re prone to doing too much, beware. This high-achieving spirit kicks into without warning. Here are ways you can plan ahead so that you don’t come to the end of the day exhausted!

Three steps to a stress-free holiday:

1. First, imagine a beautifully uncomplicated holiday.
   • Picture yourself relaxing after the event, stress-free (not exhausted)
   • Visualize a beautiful table with foods you love
   • Notice the happy, well-fed people
2. Second, list the minimum steps required to achieve Step #1.
   • Keep it simple and straightforward
   • Focus on what’s necessary to create your desired experience
   • Note: I learned about minimum steps from author Greg McKeown, in his book Effortless.
3. Third, create and implement your “to do” list.
   • Remember, only essential items go on the list.
   • Look for ways to eliminate, simplify, or delegate!
   • Avoid anything time-consuming or energy-draining
   • Diligently remind yourself that your goal is a beautiful uncomplicated holiday!

For the one who is exhausted

May this holiday be easy and effortless. May your soul find rest and laughter. And may your family experience the wonder of a simple, heart-warming holiday!

I leave you with an excerpt from a blessing by John O’Donohue, the Irish teacher and poet:

“Draw alongside the silence of stone until its calmness can claim you. Be excessively gentle with yourself.

Stay clear of those vexed in spirit. Learn to linger around someone of ease who feels they have all the time in the world.

Gradually, you will return to yourself, having learned a new respect for your heart and the joy that dwells far within slow time.”

John O’Donohue, excerpt from “for one who is exhausted,” from to bless the space between us

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