5 Ways to Prioritise Yourself During the Busiest Time of the Year
The Christmas season can feel like a whirlwind - your calendar is full of events that you don’t normally have to squeeze into your weekly routine, there’s more expectations, and endless obligations. It’s a time meant for joy and connection, yet often, we’re left feeling depleted. Sound familiar? The truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritising yourself doesn’t mean neglecting others - it’s about making space for peace, balance, and happiness amidst the chaos.
Here are 5 ways to prioritise yourself during this busy time of year…
1. Set Boundaries
Boundaries are your best defence against burnout.
It’s tempting to say “yes” to everything whether it be family gatherings, work parties, last-minute favours, volunteering… the list goes on. But when you stretch yourself too thin, you can end up exhausted and not being able to fully relax and enjoy what the season is for. Remember, “no” is a complete sentence. I’ll say it again, NO IS A COMPLETE SENTENCE. You don’t owe anyone a detailed explanation of why you’re choosing to protect your time and peace. The right people will respect your decisions.
Practical Tip: If you feel overwhelmed, pause and ask yourself:
“What is realistic for me to commit to?”
“How will this decision impact my energy?”
Trust that stepping back sometimes can actually help you show up as your best self when it matters most.
2. Plan Downtime
Downtime isn’t a luxury… it’s a necessity for your mental health.
If your calender feels packed, find at least 30 minutes of intentional down time daily. Whether it’s reading, having a cup of tea, journaling, or simply sitting in silence, this time helps you recharge and reset. Treat it as a non-negotiable appointment with yourself. Remeber, quiet moments help your nervous system relax, preventing overwhelm and protecting your mental health.
3. Let Go of Perfectionism
The holidays don’t have to be “Insta-worthy.”
There’s so much pressure to have flawless meals, perfect decorations, or the best outfits. The thing is, perfectionism robs you of your happiness. Instead of focusing on what’s not perfect, lean into what feels good, time with friends, laughter, and the little moments. You’re not going to remember whether or not the wrapping paper matched the tree, what you will remember are the laughter with family or friends or the shared moments with people you care about. Focus on meaning over perfection.
Practical Tip: When you notice perfectionist thoughts creeping in, ask yourself:
“Will this matter a year from now?”
“What memory am I creating in this moment?”
4. Don’t Forget Self-Care
During busy seasons, self-care is often the first thing to slip. But showing up for yourself means showing up better for others too.
Keep it as simple as possible - stick to routines that you know settle or ground you. That could be journaling in the morning, going to the gym (even if you have to reduced the quantity of sessions), or taking a short walk, these small acts make a big difference. Self-care helps you stay centred when things get hectic. It’s a reminder that you’re worthy of your own love and attention. Consistency is key here, not perfection.
Practical Tip: Write down 3 simple self-care habits you can stick to this month. For example:
Stretch for 5 minutes in the morning.
Journal one page each evening.
Go for a 10-minute walk during lunch.
5. Communicate Your Needs
You might feel pressure to meet everyone’s expectations during the holidays, but here’s the truth: no one can read your mind.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, ask for help. If you’re feeling tired and can’t attend an event, say that. Be open about your needs - whether it’s needing time alone, extra support, or adjustments to plans. Calm and confident communication sets a really good example of healthy boundaries for those around you, even if they aren’t very good at setting boundaries themselves yet.
Practical Tip: Use simple and clear phrases like:
“I really need some quiet time this afternoon. Can we catch up tomorrow instead?”
“I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed with this. Would you have time to help me with it? ”
The holiday season should be one of connection, joy, and reflection, not stress and overwhelm. By setting boundaries, planning downtime, releasing perfectionism, caring for yourself, and communicating your needs, you can create a space to be fully present in the important moments.
Remember: prioritising yourself isn’t a luxury. It’s essential for showing up fully in your life, as your best self for not only you but for the people who matter the most to you.
