My Secret to Saving Your Sanity for Christmas

Well, the holiday season is here—and it's supposed to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration.

But let’s be real: it can also be one of the most EXHAUSTING times of the year!!

Between work deadlines, social commitments, and family obligations, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s truly important...

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING!

This Christmas, I'm going to let you in on a little secret.

There is 1 thing that I started doing a few years back to save my sanity for Christmas.

Each year I get BETTER and better at it the more I practice it.

​It does mean you might have to do things a little differently, but instead of succumbing to the pressure to “do it all” ... this year I want you to take a moment to pause, reflect, and focus on what matters most.
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Why Do We Overpack the Holiday Season?

It’s a familiar story: you spend December scrambling to check every box on your to-do list. But why do we do this to ourselves? Research shows:
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• 88% of people find the holiday season stressful, according to a study by the American Psychological Association (APA).
• 69% feel the need to balance work deadlines with holiday preparations, leading to increased anxiety.
• Social obligations add to the load, with 43% of adults feeling pressured to attend gatherings they don’t actually want to go to.

​The result? Burnout before Christmas Day even arrives.
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RELEASE THE PRESSURE ON YOURSELF! (please...)

Here’s the radical idea I adopted a few years back: 

JUST SAY NO.

• You don’t have to see everyone in December.
• You don't have to put your hand up and volunteer for something at every group you're in.
• You def don't have to lay guilt on yourself for taking a step back this year to just breathe.

Let that sink in.

And the world won’t fall apart if you don't volunteer OR postpone some catch-ups until January—or even February.

And here's my best tip on  how to set that boundary with kindness: 

• Be honest: “I would love to see you/help out, but I’m at capacity right now. Can we do this in January when life feels a little less overwhelming?” 
• Reframe it: "January is often a calmer month work wise for me and a better time for me for this (project/event/catch up). Can we post-pone until the new year?"

I Think We Forget That We Need To Protect Our Most Precious Resource: OUR ENERGY!

I Think We Forget That We Need To Protect Our Most Precious Resource: OUR ENERGY! 

When you reflect on what matters most at Christmas, women usually tell me it's being with FAMILY.

If that resonates with you too - let me ask you then, do you want them to have "what's left of you?" or "the best of you" this year??

I spent TOO MANY years with dregs of energy left by December 24th. I learnt this the hard way.

Your time and energy are the most important resource, and only you can guard them.

💡 Here are some practical tips from my "Holiday Stress Suvivial Kit" that will help you prioritize your mental health this holiday season: 
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1. Say “No” More Often
   Give yourself permission to decline invitations or obligations that don’t serve you. Remember, a polite “no” now is better than resentment later. 
2. Schedule Downtime
   Block out time in your calendar for rest and self-care. Treat it like any other important commitment—it’s non-negotiable. 
3. Simplify Gift-Giving
   If shopping stresses you out, consider alternatives like donations, experiences, or simple heartfelt notes. A survey by Bankrate revealed that 45% of us feel financial stress during the holidays, so simplifying can ease more than just your mental load. 
4. Focus on What Brings Joy - Whether it's decorating, singing carols, baking with the kids, or a quiet night in with loved ones - lean into activities that nourish your soul rather than drain it!  

Imagine: a Calmer, More Meaningful Christmas

​Imagine starting the new year not feeling drained, but refreshed and content.

​That’s what prioritizing your mental health this Christmas can do for you. By guarding your energy, setting boundaries, and letting go of unnecessary pressures, you’re not just surviving the holidays—you’re thriving through them.

​So, take a deep breath, step back, and make time for what’s truly important: your well-being. After all, a happier, healthier YOU is the greatest gift you can give yourself—and everyone around you.

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About the Author: 
Janel Briggs is a NLP and Timeline Therapy Practitioner on a mission to support women across the globe in overcoming their professional anxieties, imposter syndrome, fears and insecurities to build unwavering confidence and self-belief. Mindset Coaching is about empowering women to rise above self-doubt and become fearless leaders in the pursuit of life and career success! Connect with Janel on social media via Linkedin or Instagram.

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