Staying CALM: Navigating the Holiday Hustle with Less Stress

mental health parenting personal growth relationships values Dec 17, 2024

Today we have a special message from licensed therapist and busy mom, Kristen Weleba, to help you navigate the holidays without becoming overwhelmed...

The holiday season is magical—twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and the joy of giving. But let’s be honest: it’s also busy. Between navigating family dynamics, juggling different schedules, and managing a routine that seems to vanish into thin air, the season can feel more overwhelming than merry.

Especially as moms, the chaos can hit hard and fast. Your mornings might be a whirlwind of getting the kids ready and out the door, squeezing in last-minute shopping, afternoons packed with school events, and evenings spent hosting family dinners or wrapping presents late into the night. By mid-December, it’s easy to feel completely drained, with the joy and special moments you long to savor buried under a mountain of stress.

If you’ve ever felt like this, know you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck in overwhelm. This is where the acronym CALM comes in, offering a simple yet powerful way to check in with yourself, reduce stress, and truly savor the season.

C: Center Yourself

When the hustle feels nonstop, take a moment to pause. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and focus on the present moment. Ground yourself by placing your hand on your heart or reciting a calming affirmation like, “I can prioritize and do what matters most.”

Tip: Start your day with 5 minutes of quiet time, whether it’s journaling, stretching, or simply sipping your coffee in peace. Centering yourself in the morning sets the tone for a calmer day.

A: Assess Your Priorities

Not everything on your to-do list needs to happen today—or even at all. Ask yourself: What truly matters? Does attending every holiday party or finding the “perfect” gift align with your values? Or would skipping some things to enjoy a quiet night with your family serve you better?

Tip: Each morning, choose 2-3 priorities for the day. Let go of the pressure to do everything, and focus on what brings you joy and fulfillment.

L: Let Go of Perfection

The holidays are not about perfection—they’re about connection. The mismatched ornaments on the tree? The not so Pinterest-worthy holiday décor? They’re part of the charm. Letting go of unrealistic expectations can free you to enjoy the moment.

Tip: When you feel the pressure to make everything “just right,” remind yourself: Done is better than perfect. The memories you create are what matter most, not the Pinterest-worthy details.

M: Make Space for Joy

In the busyness of the season, it’s easy to lose sight of what makes the holidays special. Intentionally carve out time for the things that bring you joy—whether it’s watching a favorite holiday movie, going for a walk under the lights, or laughing with loved ones.

Tip: Schedule moments of joy into your calendar, just like any other commitment. When you make space for what fills your cup, it’s easier to show up for others with a full heart.

The CALM Holiday Mindset

By centering yourself, assessing your priorities, letting go of perfection, and making space for joy, you can widen your bandwidth and create a more meaningful holiday season. Instead of feeling like you’re barely keeping up, you’ll find yourself more present, less stressed, and able to embrace the magic around you.

This holiday season, take a moment to breathe, check in with yourself, and choose CALM. Because the holidays should be about connection, joy, and the memories you create—not the stress you carry.

Live, Work and Relate Well – and Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Kristen Weleba, M.S., LPC

Kristen is currently available for telehealth sessions. Please call our office at 520 219-8377 for more information and to schedule your appointment.

You can also listen to Kristen's podcast for moms, More Than Meets The Momon your favorite podcast platform!

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