Ah, the holidays! A time of joy, twinkling lights, festive cheer… and, let’s be honest, a sprinkle (or avalanche) of stress!
With just a week until Christmas, social events, work deadlines, and family obligations can pile up fast, leaving little room for you.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to run on empty to make it through the season. By setting boundaries and being intentional with how you spend your energy, you can navigate this busy time with more ease and enjoyment.
So, let’s dive into some practical strategies to help you stay grounded and focused.
Understanding Boundaries and Energy
Think of boundaries as limits you set to protect your time, energy, and priorities.
And your energy? It’s like a battery. When it’s drained, everything feels harder.
The holiday season tends to push us toward running on fumes, but the good news is that with the right tools, you can recharge and keep your energy intact.
Strategies for Setting Boundaries
1. Get Clear on Your Priorities
What truly matters most to you over the next two weeks? Is it meeting a work deadline? Spending quality time with loved ones? Getting some well-deserved rest? Whatever it is, write down 2-3 non-negotiable priorities and let those guide your decisions.
This means saying “no” to things that don’t align with your priorities – like skipping a late-night social event if an early night is what you need.
Remember: focusing on one priority at a time is key.
2. Take an Energy Audit
Look back at the last couple of weeks and think about the people, places, and activities that have left you feeling drained versus those that have energised you. Now, make a plan:
- Avoid the energy-drainers: Skip or limit interactions that deplete you whenever possible.
- Set boundaries for unavoidable situations: If you can’t avoid certain people or events, adjust how you engage. For example, meet in group settings, choose neutral turf to meet up on, or suggest a walk in nature to reduce intensity. (Bonus: nature is a natural mood booster!)
3. Recharge Rituals and Daily Anchors
The holiday hustle can’t get to you if you’re intentionally recharging daily. Here are some simple yet effective rituals to keep you grounded:
- Screen-free time: Dedicate moments in the morning and evening to unplugging.
- Breathing exercises: Pause throughout the day to breathe deeply and reset.
- Journaling and mindfulness: Process your thoughts and emotions by putting pen to paper or practicing mindfulness.
- Daily movement: Start your day with exercise to release endorphins or end it with movement as a healthier way to unwind than reaching for a glass of wine.
- Morning and evening anchors: Kick off the day with meditation or a walk and wind down with a soothing bath or some quiet reading.
4. Practice the Art of Saying No
Saying no can feel hard – hello, guilt and FOMO – but it’s a crucial skill, especially during the festive period when invitations and obligations skyrocket. Here’s how to approach it:
- Ask yourself: Does this event truly serve me in the long run? Will it drain my energy or does it align with my priorities?
- Set expectations: For events you can’t skip, communicate clearly in advance. For example, let the host know you can stay for an hour but will need to leave after that.
The more you practice saying no, the easier it gets and the more room you’ll have to say yes to what really matters.
5. ME Time Blocking
Your calendar isn’t just for meetings and events with others. It’s also for YOU!
Block time for rest, exercise, and self-care activities so they’re just as protected as work deadlines or social plans. And leave a little open space for spontaneity or unexpected opportunities.
When you prioritise yourself in your schedule, you’re less likely to burn out and more likely to enjoy the season.
The holidays don’t have to leave you feeling frazzled. By setting boundaries, protecting your energy, and carving out time for what truly matters, you can experience this season with more joy and less stress. Remember: you should be on your own priority list – not only do you deserve to be, but you need to be there!
So, what boundary will you set this week? How will you recharge? Let me know over on Instagram or LinkedIn – I’d love to hear what’s working for you!
And you my want to check out my new community while you’re here – perhaps I’ll be welcoming you to the tribe in 2025!
