The holidays are intended to be an enjoyable time to gather with friends and family, share traditions, and create handed-down family recipes. We watch picture-perfect movies and listen to music about the joy of being “home for the holidays.”

But for many people, it’s also a very stressful time of year. Teachers get an extra load to carry, since they’re managing classrooms of kids who are excited for presents and less-than-excited about school! 

If you are seeking a few ways to lessen that stress, and truly have a happy holiday, today’s blog is for you. Here are a few ideas that can keep things merry and bright, no matter how much jingle you have to juggle.

Simplify the Workload

Let’s start with the basics. No one said you have to do it all! And no one said you have to do it all on your own. Try to get as many helping hands involved as you can. Not only will this reduce your “to-do list,” but it will spread the more tedious chores of the holiday season out, instead of overwhelming just one family member. Have a present-wrapping party or get everyone involved in addressing Christmas cards. 

Other ways to lessen the load can include simple changes. Instead of making the entire family feast alone, update the big meal to a potluck. Ask each attending guest to bring a part of the dinner. 

Or if cooking or baking is a big time consumer for you, skip it! Pick up the holiday meals instead of making it all from scratch. You can also ditch the usual traditions and order takeout or pizza. Or, go “Peanuts” style and have jelly beans, popcorn, pretzels, and toast!

Plan Ahead

The holiday season can run smoother if you plan ahead. Consider baking cookies a few weeks out and freezing your creations until it’s time to share them.

Shopping can be another stressor over the holidays, and doing that as early as possible helps lessen that load by the deadline. If it feels too late this year, get yourself off to a solid start in 2025 by pacing out your purchases. Yes, you can even begin in December/January by taking advantage of those post-Christmas sales. We won’t tell!

Surround Yourself with Love

Feeling like a Scrooge when it comes to events? Simplify those, too. It’s OK to say “no thank you” to an event you’re not excited about attending. Ask your kids which outings they enjoy the most, and lean into the ones that the whole family enjoys. 

We get into traditions and routines, especially around holidays, and that can be great if it makes you happy. But if the thought of an assortment of social interactions makes you exhausted before you even RSVP, consider skipping out on a few. Your mental health, time, and stress level will thank you. There is no reason to push yourself into awkward or difficult interactions “just because it’s Christmas.” If it makes you feel stressed, don’t do it. 

If opting out altogether just isn’t an option, consider setting a time limit. Pop into your aunt’s house to make an appearance, but let your family know that in one hour, you’re all heading out the door. 

Do What Makes You Happy

At the end of the day, the holiday season should be a time of joy, happiness, and cozy times. If you’re overwhelmed by social aspects, bogged down by the necessary shopping, or just cannot fathom cooking again all on your own, it’s OK to cut back. Slow down the season, and remember what it’s all about!