How I’m not overcommitting this holiday season.

Hey Queen,

Ah! It’s time. November. School’s back in session and it’s time to start thinking about hosting dinners, holiday parties, exchanging gifts, and pulling it all off without feeling stressed. Because as always, you have somehow found yourself to be the party planner on top of everything else.

I’ve been there. I still am guilty of overcommitting during the holidays, and this is what I’m doing to actively prevent myself from doing that. I hope these reminders and tips help you stay calibrated and as relaxed as you can this holiday season.

Say NO.

It’s always my number one. I need to be better about saying no, and I’m sure you do too. Remember to keep an updated calendar with all of the obligations that you are happy to take on first. If you find it full and something comes up? DON’T negotiate. Either reallocate your priorities to make room or say you’re not available. It’s never worth the stress and there’s nothing wrong with passing something up or rescheduling to meet up another time.

Celebrate & Strategize.

This time of year is always a whirlwind. So make sure that between the holiday lights and festive tunes, toasts and the turkeys, you take a moment to reflect on your year. Jot down your valuable lessons and inspirational triumphs so you have them for the upcoming year. It’s not just about gearing up for festivities, but also gearing up for a proactive year ahead. Embrace the season as a bridge between valuable past insights and future engaging strategies.

Schedule self-care.

Do you have your budget for self-care? You should! Make sure that the budget is available for you year-round, especially during the holidays when you’ll be spread a little more thin! Make sure you’re taking deep breaths periodically throughout the day, checking in with your heart, taking walks, and having some time alone to read or journal. You need this! Self-care is a necessity, it isn’t a gift.

Laugh.

This may seem obvious… but I tend to forget to just shake things off. Stuff falls through the cracks, mistakes happen, and it’s okay. Nothing needs to be perfect. If you find yourself overwhelmed or feeling guilty, remind yourself of the peace you deserve and watch a funny video.

November is a strange month. We’re just getting into the swing of things with school and then it’s time to shake everything up with the holidays. Queens, don’t sweat it. Life is too short. Stop feeling guilty for actually trying to make the most out of this season.

Oh! You also have my permission to nag your partner, friends, kids, or whoever is in arm’s reach for help, because doing this all solo is so last year.

XOXO,