The holidays can be magical, but they're also one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year. Between work obligations, family traditions, and endless shopping lists, it's easy to feel like you're running on empty. That's why holiday self-care isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. Taking care of yourself helps you manage stress, avoid burnout, and truly enjoy the season with your loved ones.

In this post, you'll find practical, easy-to-follow strategies to prioritize self-care during the holidays. It will also help you avoid burnout, and make the holidays a time of joy, not stress!

The Importance of Scheduling Time for Yourself

If you're like most parents, your schedule is packed. You have meetings, deadlines, school events, and holiday prep all competing for your attention. But here's the truth: if you don't schedule time for yourself, it won't happen. 

Create a Self-Care Routine That Works for You​

Start by setting aside 10–15 minutes daily. Use that time for something that makes you feel good. It could be journaling, taking a short walk, or even just sitting quietly with your morning coffee. Over time, these small moments of self-care will add up.

Example: Block out time on your calendar just as you would for a meeting. Label it "Me Time." Treat it as non-negotiable.

Use Stress Management Tools and Technology

Tools like stress management toys can provide instant relief. Keep a stress ball at your desk or a small sensory item in your bag for those overwhelming moments.

If you wear a Fitbit or another health tracker, check your stress management score (Fitbit or other apps) regularly. It's a great way to measure how well you're managing your holiday stress and make adjustments if needed. Many times it will recommend quick breathing exercises that you can do. Make sure to take a 1-5 minute break to re-center and ground yourself, it makes a big difference.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Overwhelm

Start your holiday planning early.

Make a list of everything you need to do, then prioritize. Can some tasks be delegated? Are there events you can skip? Being proactive can help reduce last-minute stress.

Quick Tip: Use a shared family calendar (like Google!) to coordinate schedules and avoid double-booking events.

Recognizing and Addressing Burnout Signals 

Burnout doesn't come out of nowhere—it builds up over time. The holidays can make it worse if you're not careful. Learning to recognize and address burnout early can save you from a breakdown. 

Take the Parental Burnout Quiz​ 

The holidays can push even the most organized parents to their limits. If you're feeling drained or stretched too thin, it might be time to check in with yourself. A parental burnout quiz can be an eye-opener. It helps you assess how you're truly feeling and pinpoints areas where you might need extra support or a change in your routine.

Parental burnout isn't just about being tired. It's about feeling overwhelmed to the point where your emotional and physical well-being starts to suffer. It can affect your relationships, your work, and your ability to enjoy everyday life.

Signs of Burnout:

Are you experiencing any of the following?

• Constant Exhaustion: You feel drained as soon as you wake up, and even small tasks seem monumental.
• Irritability or Short Temper: You snap at your kids, partner, or coworkers more than usual, even over minor issues.
• Feeling Disconnected from Family: You feel like you're just going through the motions with your family, rather than truly engaging with them.
• Loss of Interest in Activities You Usually Enjoy: Hobbies, socializing, or even holiday traditions no longer bring you joy.

These signs are your body and mind's way of saying they need a break. Ignoring them can lead to deeper issues, like prolonged stress, anxiety, or even depression.

If you notice these signs, it's time to take a step back and prioritize self-care.

Set Emotional Goals for the Season 

Instead of focusing on having a "perfect" holiday, set emotional goals.

Ask yourself how you want to feel this season. Do you want to feel peaceful? Connected? Relaxed? Let those goals guide your decisions.

Example: If your goal is to feel connected, focus on spending quality time with your family. Try not to worry about elaborate decorations or perfect meals. The need for perfection always leads to distress... No one is perfect!

Practice Gratitude Daily

Gratitude is a powerful tool for shifting your mindset. Each evening, write down three things you're grateful for. It could be as simple as a kind word from a coworker or a funny moment with your kids. Gratitude helps you focus on the positives, even during stressful times. 

Finding Small Ways to Recharge Daily​

You don't need hours of free time to recharge. Small, consistent actions can help you feel more balanced and less stressed. 

Incorporate Movement Into Your Day​ 

Exercise is one of the best ways to boost your mood and energy levels. You don't need a gym membership or a long workout. 

Ideas:

• Dance to your favorite holiday music for 10 minutes.
• Take a brisk walk around your neighborhood.
• Do a quick yoga session in your living room.

These small bursts of activity are great for managing holiday stress and keeping your body healthy.

Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine

Sleep is critical, especially during busy times. If you're struggling to wind down, try creating a calming bedtime routine. 

Suggestions:

• Turn off screens an hour before bed.
• Listen to guided meditation or soft music.
• Read a book (not work-related!) to relax your mind.
• Do a "brain dump"

Many times you find it hard to go to sleep because you can't shut your brain off. Don't let your thoughts keep you up, write them down so that you can solve them tomorrow. Better sleep improves your mood and energy, making it easier to handle holiday stress.

Try Simple Mindfulness Practices

Mindfulness doesn't have to be complicated. Start with small practices like focusing on your breath or observing your surroundings for a few minutes. Some other quick ideas are to practice mindful eating, drinking, or walking. That is when you focus on the task itself and use your senses to fully enjoy it.

Example: When you feel overwhelmed, take five deep breaths. Inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for six counts. This helps calm your nervous system and clear your mind.

Asking for Support Without Guilt

You're not in this alone. Asking for help doesn't make you weak—it makes you smart.​

Lean on Your Support System​

If you have family and friends nearby, don't hesitate to ask for help. Most people, especially family members, want to lend a hand—they just need to know what you need. Be specific when asking, whether it's watching the kids while you wrap presents or helping with grocery shopping. People are often happy to pitch in, especially during the holidays.

Example: If you're feeling stretched thin, ask friends and family to bring a dish to a holiday dinner or help wrap gifts.

See How I Can Help You the Best

The holidays can feel like an impossible juggling act, but you don't have to do everything on your own. Sometimes, the best way to manage stress is by reaching out and sharing the load. Whether you have a partner, older kids, or a circle of supportive friends, teamwork makes all the difference during this busy season.​

Delegate Age-Appropriate Tasks to Kids​

If you have older kids, involve them in holiday preparations. Assign age-appropriate tasks like setting the table, wrapping gifts, or helping younger siblings with crafts. Not only does this lighten your load, but it also teaches them valuable skills and responsibility. Make it fun by turning tasks into a game or playing holiday music while working together.​

Partner with Other Parents​

For single parents, swapping favors with another parent can be a lifesaver. Offer to watch their kids for an afternoon so they can tackle holiday errands, and let them return the favor. It's a simple way to create a support system that benefits everyone. Look for opportunities to team up, like carpooling to events or sharing cooking duties for holiday meals.​

Consider Professional Help​

If your budget allows, consider hiring help for overwhelming tasks. A cleaning service, meal delivery, or even a virtual assistant can take some pressure off. Think of it as an investment in your sanity and energy during the busiest time of the year.​

Create a Holiday Plan Together​

If you have a partner, sit down together and divide the holiday responsibilities. Decide who will handle shopping, cooking, or planning events. This not only reduces your stress but also makes sure that the workload is shared fairly.Remember, the holidays aren't about perfection—they're about connection. By leaning on others, you'll have more time and energy to focus on what really matters: creating meaningful moments with your family. Collaboration isn't a sign of weakness; it's a strategy for success. This season, see how I can help you the best by embracing the power of teamwork.​

Set Boundaries Without Apology​

You don't have to say yes to every invitation or request. Politely decline anything that doesn't align with your priorities or emotional goals.​Sample Response: "Thank you for inviting me, but I have too much on my plate right now. I hope we can connect another time."Setting boundaries protects your energy. Especially if you are doing things on your own. When you set boundaries it helps prevent single parent burnout and stress overload.​

Conclusion​

The holiday season doesn't have to leave you feeling drained. When you prioritize holiday self-care, you start to notice when things aren't right for you. You begin to recognize your own burnout signals. Remember to recharge daily, and ask for help when you need it.

That way you can enjoy a season filled with joy and connection—without the stress!

Remember, taking care of yourself isn't just about you—it's about showing up as the best version of yourself for your family.

This year, let self-care be your most important holiday tradition. You deserve it!