When one starts to plan for the holidays, why doesn’t one check in with themself first and plan for the outcome in mind? I’m looking at the holidays through many lenses in this episode. In January, I don’t want you exhausted and dreading next year. This year I want you to look back over the merry holiday magic that you made happen and feel excited to do it again next year.
Energy
The first thing you need to think about is your current overall energy. Has 2026 been a rough year so far or are you running on all cylinders? When I held the self care retreat that was a result of my book last year, Escaping Quicksand, I really needed it. As the PhD came to an end, I was really exhausted. How is your energy going into the holidays? Permission to plan accordingly. You are where the holiday comes from and you are in control of what you plan.
Also, check in with yourself and identify when your energy is the highest throughout the day and week. I know that I am a morning afternoon person. I may tell others that we need to celebrate early because of kids’ bedtimes, but really? It’s me! I am done when the sun goes down. I’m ready for my hot bath and some down time. Then there’s my husband who works hard all week and does not wanna go out on a Friday night but Saturdays are great. When you know this about yourself you can enjoy celebrations much more!
Sleep can definitely affect your energy levels too. Not sure I have much advice on sleep – just get as much as you can. Because no one is really getting a lot of sleep in our house we have mandatory rest time after presents. Does your family need a mandatory rest time to recharge and reset? Think about your rest for the entire break. There is a lot of time after the holidays have been celebrated. What does that home time look like? Will you be entertaining? Traveling? Are there projects you want to plan for?
And what you eat to fuel your body matters. Carol who used to organize with me could tackle a garage or basement everyday of the week, she worked out. But me with my fast food and coke diet didn’t have the physical or mental stamina to. I have really worked hard on my nutrition and now have added exercise. How else am I gonna keep you with my giant little grandkids?
Family/Celebration Time
Another important thing to know about yourself is how long can you “family?” I love being with my family, it energizes me. But not everyone feels this way. And some family or traditional gatherings are easier to get along with the people there than others. If you need to create space or deflect attention I would recommend bringing a game to switch up the conversations or a handheld activity like cross stitch or crochet or maybe even a puzzle. If people choose to join you great and if not maybe even better? I know, I said it LOL
I had a spur of the moment idea in the middle of recording this episode but you could consider hard day task stacking sandwiched with positivity. Treat yourself with a coffee, commit to short visits to the hard stuff, and finish the day with a beautiful meal or something else you enjoy.
Questions to Ask Yourself
In anticipation of those hard events there are some questions I encourage you to ask yourself.
Can you change it?
Do you want to do it?
Can you avoid it, limit it or stack it?
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