Rest Up, Buttercup
1. Schedule Your Downtime Like a Meeting (Because It’s That Important)
Let’s be honest: if it’s not on the calendar, it’s not happening. No literally, my Google Calendar is a life saver. Block out at least an hour a week for YOU. Whether it’s a solo coffee date, a long bath, or an hour to curl up with a book, treat it like a non-negotiable appointment. Your to-do list will still be there when you’re done—but you’ll tackle it with more energy and be lessed overwhelm.
And remember, self care looks different for everyone. So often we put self care on a pedestal that seems so far out of reach, especially as a mama with a million things on her plate. It doesn't have to be an expensive spa day. It could literally be an hour to yourself, soaking up the sun, reading a book & enjoying that smell of fresh book pages while drinking your coffee hot. I have dreams about that moment.
Hot tip: Communication is key with everything & everyone. If you're an overwhelmed, overstimulated mama like me, I suggest this- carve out time with your husband, tell him how you feel & work as a team. "Hey babe, I just need you to hang with the kids for 1 hour, whenever works for you, so that I can take a long hot shower, actually shave my legs, do a skin care routine & not feel rushed." Whenever I communicate like that, I come out SO much happier & recharged as a mom, wife & woman.
And legs that don't feel like Chewbacca.
2. Say No (and Don’t Feel Bad About It)
Holiday burnout often comes from saying yes to everything. Here’s your permission slip to skip the cookie swap or pass on hosting the third family dinner. Focus on what brings you joy—and politely decline the rest. There is power in saying no.
Remember, “no” is a complete sentence.
That is one of the greatest pieces of advice I've ever received. Sometimes the answer is simply: no. You don't need to make an excuse or explain yourself- we are all adults here!! A simple "I love you but I'll take a raincheck" is more than enough.
Check in with yourself. Sometimes I am feeling super social & want to hang out with other kids & families, and sometimes I'd rather pluck out my eyelashes than fake small talk & put makeup on. Follow your gut & how you feel. We always want to show up as our best selves, so let's not force it when sweatpants are calling our names.
3. Create a Relaxing Holiday Ritual
Find one thing that feels festive and calming and make it yours. These small moments can feel like little pockets of magic amidst the chaos. A few ideas:
- A morning gratitude practice with your favorite holiday playlist.
- Evening candlelit stretching or yoga by the tree.
- Journaling with a peppermint mocha in hand.
4. Let Go of Perfection
The perfect holiday doesn’t exist, and that’s okay. Focus on connection over perfection—because the people who love you aren’t noticing if the tree is crooked or the gift wrap isn’t Instagram-worthy. They just want you.
Because at the end of the day we don't remember the gifts, the fancy plates, the perfect wrapping paper & overpriced bows. No, we remember mom in the kitchen, we remember belly laughing over stupid family games, & we remember the look we all had when we found out as children that Grandma was indeed wearing a wig this entire time.
Let's focus on creating less perfection & more core memories.
5. Unplug to Recharge
Put the phone down. Seriously. Take a break from the endless group texts, social media scrolls, and email pings. Dedicate one evening to a digital detox and watch a holiday movie, play a board game, or just bask in the quiet. Your mind (and mood) will thank you.
I love the saying “hang up to hang out.” It’s one of those htings that stuck with me. Ever notice the best times had are the ones where you look back and say “I didn’t even get a picture!” because you were too busy being present? Let’s do more of that, girl. ESPECIALLY the parents… insert cheesy line it goes by SO fast. Treasure these special holiday moments with those you love.