Embracing Balance: Avoiding Burnout During the Holiday Season

For most of last week, popular UK brand, Boots, had social media in an uproar over its latest Christmas ad. The fun, upbeat ad showed Mrs Claus and her band of female elves tackling all of the tasks needed to make Christmas happen- from toy making to gift wrapping and adding the final bow on top. All of this happens while Santa Claus snoozes away In an armchair. 

But what about this, could have caused offense with threats of mass boycots you might ask. It's when Santa Claus wakes up after most of the work has been done- just in time to deliver the gifts, and Mrs Claus turns to the camera and cheekily asks, "You thought it was all him?" The divide comes with the ad suggesting that it's really women who put the magic in Christmas with men having no clue how everything gets done.

While the online debate has been fierce, one common thread seems to run throughout the comments, now adult children recalling how their mom and female relatives worked (and continue to work) to the point of exhaustion during the holidays just to make it special.

While this has indeed been the reality for many women, the holiday season should be just that- a time of joy, celebration, and connection. But it can also bring a whirlwind of tasks that lead to stress and exhaustion. For feminine women, maintaining a sense of balance and self-care during this busy time is essential. The question then is, what can you do this holiday season to avoid the trap of holiday burnout? Here are our top 5 tips:

1. Set Realistic Expectations: One of the first steps to avoiding overwhelm is to set realistic expectations for yourself. It’s easy to get carried away with the idea of creating the perfect holiday experience, but remember that it’s okay to simplify your plans. Focus on what truly matters to you and your loved ones, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a small gathering, and let go off the pressure to do it all. Cut tasks and events mercilessly if it means that you will be able to maintain your sanity, since you'll hardly be able to enjoy yourself if your mind is distracted thinking about what's  next on your to-do list. 

2. Prioritize Self-Care: Amid the hustle and bustle, self-care should remain a top priority. Schedule time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as taking soothing baths, practicing mindfulness, or indulging in your favorite hobbies. Incorporating calming rituals into your daily routine will not only enhance your well-being but also allow you to approach the holiday season with a peaceful mindset. Just remember, your little ones will remember the holidays as being just as magical if you choose to run yourself a warm bath and spend time with them rather than spending and hour in traffic to get that ornament to make the Christmas tree look just right.

3. Delegate Tasks: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family and friends. Delegating tasks can lighten your load and foster a sense of teamwork. Whether it’s cooking, decorating, or shopping, sharing responsibilities can create a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Let go off the idea of perfection- let it go! The pressure to make everything look just perfect for the holidays is what has many a mom screaming silently into their pillow or crying from exhaustion on the bathroom floor. Am I being a bit dramatic with the visuals? Maybe, but you get my point. The bottom line is delegating tasks during the holidays allows you to spend quality time with loved ones instead of feeling burdened by having to do everything yourself. 

4. Embrace the Power of “No”: Aunt Jackie wants you to make that delectable Christmas desert last minute- No. Your mom volunteered you to help with the church production when you're already assisting with two other functions- No. It's important to recognize your limits and be comfortable saying “no” to invitations or commitments that don’t align with your priorities. Most importantly, you must recognize that there are limits to what you're physically able to do, so it's up to you to protect your time and energy. By being selective about what you engage in, you can focus on the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

5. Pre-plan where possible: Planning and getting things done early can significantly reduce holiday stress for you. By organizing tasks like shopping, decorating, and meal prep in advance, you create a calm atmosphere that allows for more enjoyable celebrations. Some pro tips as it relates to pre-planning are: order gifts online instead of running around to retail stores, opt for delivery of items when possible, and take advantage of local caterers who are selling holiday menu items. This approach not only minimizes last-minute chaos but also gives you time to savor the season with those who truly matter to you. 

Remember, the Christmas season should be a time for joy and connection, not stress and exhaustion. By setting realistic expectations and prioritizing self-care,  feminine women can navigate this busy time with grace and ease. Remember, it’s all about finding balance and making the holidays enjoyable for yourself and your loved ones. 💕