Are you wondering how to stay calm this Christmas, the craziest time of the year? Read on to discover my top five ways to stay calm and in control this December…
“Adults can take a simple holiday for children and screw it up. What began as a presentation of simple gifts to delight and surprise children around the Christmas tree has culminated in a woman unwrapping six shrimp forks from her dog, who drew her name.”
Erma Bombeck
They say Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but for many of us, it can feel more like a whirlwind of stress and endless to-do lists. The pressure to create a picture-perfect Christmas and be the hostess with the mostess can leave you feeling frazzled before the first mince pie is even baked – or bought, in my case!
But this year, let’s flip the script. Let’s focus on staying calm, in control, and – most importantly – giving yourself the time and space to really enjoy the season. Here are five practical ways to make that happen.
How to stay calm this Christmas – 5 simple tips
1. The Time Is Now
Stop waiting for the perfect moment and embrace the season now.
How many times have you thought about all the festive things you’d love to do with your family, only to realise by Hogmanay that most of them never happened? That has happened to me on more than one occasion!
Watching Christmas movies snuggled under a blanket, baking gingerbread men, or taking a drive or walk at night to see the Christmas lights – these are the moments that bring the magic to life and the traditions our kids will remember forever. It’ll be a whole year before you get another chance.
The secret? Start now. Don’t wait for the perfect day or a free weekend because life will always find a way to get in the way. Keep things simple: pop on your cosiest pyjamas, make some hot chocolate, and have a Christmas movie night tonight.
It doesn’t have to be extravagant. It’s the time you spend together that matters and the precious memories you create that will last a lifetime.
2. Don’t Overthink It
Keep it simple, and don’t be afraid to say no.
One of the biggest traps we fall into at this time of year is overthinking. We get hoodwinked into believing that we need to create a ‘perfect’ Christmas that looks like something from a film or an advert. But guess what? There’s no such thing as a perfect Christmas.
Simplify wherever you can. Stick to traditions that you and your family love. If that means saying no to a dozen events or setting boundaries around how you spend your time, so be it. Don’t exhaust yourself trying to attend every party or see every friend and relative.
The fear of missing out is real, but the joy of missing out can be just as satisfying. Relish the thought of a quiet evening at home, lighting a candle, and enjoying the peace of your own company.
You can get more advice on how to enjoy an organised Christmas HERE.
3. Keep Spending Under Control
Focus on what really matters, not what costs the most or how many gifts there are under the tree.
Christmas doesn’t have to break the bank. Gifts are wonderful, but they don’t have to overwhelm your budget. My favourite gift idea, especially for children, is the 4-gift rule:
- Something they want
- Something they need
- Something to wear
- Something to read
Super-simple and wholesome!
If your gift list feels as if it’s spiralling out of control, consider alternatives like a Secret Santa for larger groups or setting limits on how many people you buy for. A quick chat with extended family can save you all time and money – for instance, agreeing to only buy gifts for the kids or just exchanging gifts at birthdays instead. A brilliant clutter-free gift idea is to not buy gifts at all and book an activity or experience together.
Remember, the best experiences don’t come wrapped in a bow. A winter walk, a movie night, or baking together can be just as meaningful. And when it comes to Christmas dinner, keep in mind that it’s really just a glorified Sunday roast. Ignore the ads and remind yourself you’re not catering for royalty!
Check out my ultimate guide to a clutter-free Christmas gifting HERE.
4. You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup
Prioritise sleep and self-care.
This should probably be rule number one because you matter. It’s impossible to bring your best self to your family, friends, and festivities when the batteries are low and you’re running on empty.
Sleep is your best friend this festive season. Aim for 8 hours a night, and guard your rest like you would a precious gift. Switch off the devices early, start winding down and get to bed at a decent time.
Look at your December calendar now and block out time for yourself first before it fills up with all your other commitments. Treat these moments like appointments you can’t cancel.
Whether it’s a warm bubble bath, a good book, a quiet walk in nature, or treating yourself to a facial, take the time to recharge. Even 10 minutes to yourself can feel like a luxury – especially if you’re juggling life with young children or caring for older relatives. Remember: you can’t give your best to others if you’re completely drained yourself.
5. Find Joy in the Little Things
Savour the season by focusing on special moments.
Christmas is about joy, love, and togetherness – not perfection. Find moments of happiness in the simple things:
- Watch the snow fall
- Wrap gifts to a Christmas playlist
- Play board games with your family
- Light a festive candle and enjoy the scent and the glow
The magic of Christmas isn’t found in a mile-long to-do list or a pile of presents. It’s in those little moments that are often overlooked or seen as mundane. Give yourself the gift of slowing down and soaking it all in. All we ever have is now.
This year, I hope you can create a Christmas that feels calm, joyful, and manageable to you. By starting early, simplifying your plans, setting boundaries, and prioritising self-care, you’ll give yourself the best chance to enjoy the festive season without feeling overwhelmed.
Remember, Christmas is about creating memories – not stress. So, switch on the fairy lights, pour yourself a drink, and embrace the magic of the season. And hopefully, you won’t receive a set of shrimp forks from your dog!
Wishing you a very merry and peaceful Christmas. Cheers!