Setting Your Intentions For The Holidays

When it comes to the holidays, you could say I’m a big fan. I mean, what’s not to love about planning fun activities, entertaining guests, and spending plenty of quality time with the extended family? There’s just so much magic in this season, especially while raising children. But all of the bustle and excitement of the most wonderful time of the year can also be accompanied by stress and anxiety. 

Look, I don’t shy away from a busy schedule, but there are so many added engagements,  pressures, and demands at this time of year that it can be hard to keep those jolly spirits up, and little things that wouldn’t typically set us off can end up sending us over the edge—mama’s, I know you know what I mean.

If you find it hard to stay present during the holidays, I totally hear you! But it doesn’t have to be this way. And really, the reason for the season is to spend time creating memories that will last a lifetime with the people you love. So, let’s make this holiday season our most intentional and present one yet. And really, after all of the stress of the last year and a half, we could all use some help setting your intentions for the holidays. So, let’s dig right in. 

Identify Your Values 

If you’re like me, the holidays are an amazing time to practice gratitude because we often begin thinking ahead to the new year and reflecting on the year before. This is a perfect opportunity to forgive yourself for anything you didn’t get a chance to do and let go of what no longer serves you while focusing on the things you’re grateful for. Last year we had to give up a lot of our usual holiday activities, and while that was heartbreaking, we were able to slow down and spend more time at home together connecting as a family, which is something I want to carry forward.

Everyone celebrates the holidays differently, so it’s important to identify what your values around the holidays are. You might find value in practicing kindness by giving back to your community by volunteering at your local food bank. Or maybe you spend more time aligning with your family by writing a family mission statement or setting some goals together for the next year. Whatever it is, commit yourself to it fully. 

Selective Energy

I find that there’s a lot of pressure to create a perfect holiday where every gift looks professionally wrapped, each meal is a Michelin Star feast, and my home is decorated like the cover of a magazine. But the holidays aren’t about perfection to me, they’re about connection.  The moment something feels like an obligation, the less I feel like I’m honoring my own energy, needs, and values. 

The most important thing I can do for myself and my family around the holidays is to keep my values at the top of my mind so that I’m less likely to get distracted by things that don’t matter as much to me. When I remember that life isn’t always perfect and it’s okay if the holidays aren’t either, I am able to wrap every gift and make each meal with love and work on the DIY decor projects that bring me joy. 

Checking Your Presence 

As a parent, I’m focused on making this time of year memorable for my children by planning special activities, attending social gatherings, and visiting with family. But with so many expectations around the holidays, it’s really easy to feel overwhelmed. It can feel impossible to enjoy the moment when I’m focused on what’s next. 

Since I like to plan holiday activities and gatherings in advance, I also like to pencil in some time without any obligations at all where I can put my phone down and soak in the moment. This quiet time helps me to slow down and enjoy the things I love to do like holiday baking and spending extra time with my family. This dedicated time also keeps my priorities in check and helps me to stay present through the month so I can focus on the things that really matter, without the stress!

Even though the holidays can feel busy, distracted, and stressful, I hope you found some tips here to help you create a more intentional holiday season this year. Remember that your holidays are yours. Whatever you choose to make of this season is completely up to you! I want to hear all about how you’ll be spending the holidays, so leave a comment letting me know. Happy intention-setting!

xo BJS