'Tis the season of giving, cheer, mistletoe, eggnog, snow days, presents, carols, parties, and so much more. My kids love Christmas [1], and hey, can you really blame them? I would love it too if someone else was making everything magical for me [2]. But sadly, I'm both Santa and his many elves, and that means I have to do a whole lot of buying, budgeting, and wrapping. And if that isn't enough, there are parties at school, parties at work, and parties with family and friends. Don't get me wrong, I'm extremely grateful to be able to spend the holidays with people I love and care about, but it's also so. freaking. exhausting [3].
In an effort to dodge some of the stress, I've made a little list of my own of things I can do without this year, which I'll proudly check twice. My list is all about preserving self-care [4] during this hectic time of year, and I feel really good about it. So, without further adieu, keep reading for 10 things I'm unapologetically skipping this year. "Santa" completely understands.
Secret Santa Gift Exchanges
This Grinch is just saying no to any and all Secret Santa gift exchanges [6]. The secret is always revealed too soon and the present is undoubtedly socks or hand lotion. Yes, it's a fun holiday tradition for some, but this year, I'm going to kick my feet up and skip the last-minute trip to Starbucks for the mug and gift card.
Dieting
There's a time and place for everything, and the holidays just aren't when you should skip treats. I won't feel guilty about overindulging in eggnog, gingersnaps, and peppermint bark. It's a huge part of what makes the holidays fun!
New Year's Resolutions
I've been drinking the New Year's resolution [7] Kool-Aid for 40 years, and let me tell you, the only thing that comes from this pressure-filled tradition is disappointment. New year, same old me, and I'm absolutely OK with that.
Doing It All
After countless years of taking on too much and trying to do it all, I'm finally making a conscious decision to put self-care [8] first so I can be the best me and be fully present. Sometimes, self-care is a big slice of cheesecake and an early bedtime. May your holidays be filled with balance, boundaries, and lots of love.