Overplanning during the holiday season can bring about stress and detract from the joyous atmosphere that is meant to be created during this time.

The numerous tasks involved, such as finding the perfect gifts, decorating, organizing gatherings, and upholding traditions, can make the holiday period overwhelming for many individuals.

Dr. Suzanne Degges-White, a licensed counselor and professor at Northern Illinois University, highlighted that holidays come with certain expectations that can be burdensome for many. From unexpected visits to demands of attending events and catering to children, the holiday season can lead to overcommitment, overspending, and ultimately, resentment from mid-November to early January.

It is not uncommon to find oneself in a continuous cycle of overplanning and spreading oneself too thin when striving for an idealized version of what the holidays should entail.

Choose meaningful traditions

Traditions play a significant role during the holidays, whether it involves giving yearly handmade gifts or preparing meals following family recipes. While traditions aim to foster connections with loved ones, they can also bring about significant pressure.

Dr. Degges-White suggested evaluating which traditions hold personal importance and considering dropping those that add unnecessary stress. Tough decisions may need to be made due to limited time, energy, and financial resources available during this period.

Aim for progress, not perfection

Many individuals have high expectations for holiday events, seeking perfection in every aspect. However, striving for perfection often leads to disappointment as expectations may not align with reality.

Dr. Lisa Firestone recommended identifying what truly matters during the holidays, whether it's spending quality time with family or simply relaxing. By shifting the focus from achieving perfection to pursuing meaningful goals, individuals can experience greater enjoyment during the festive season.

Involve others in the holiday preparations

It is important to engage family members in discussions about what aspects of the holiday season hold significance for them. While handmade decorations or special treats may appear impressive, understanding the underlying meaning behind these traditions can foster a deeper connection.

Allowing others to contribute and share responsibilities can alleviate the burden of holiday preparations. This collaborative effort not only reduces stress but also enhances the holiday spirit, creating a shared experience for all involved.

Schedule downtime for yourself

Dr. Emiliana Simon-Thomas emphasized the importance of setting aside discretionary time devoid of obligations or commitments. Resisting the urge to overplan, driven by the fear of missing out, enables individuals to appreciate moments of joy and relaxation during the holiday season.

Embracing discretionary time, or the joy of missing out, can lead to a greater sense of contentment and fulfillment, enhancing the overall holiday experience.

Cultivate gratitude over criticism

In moments of self-criticism or worry, practicing gratitude can be transformative. Dr. Simon-Thomas recommended expressing gratitude through writing down or reflecting on positive aspects of life, fostering a mindset centered on appreciation and optimism.

By cultivating a habit of gratitude, individuals can shift their focus towards positive experiences, fostering supportive relationships and effectively managing challenges that arise during the holiday season.