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As the holiday season kicks into high gear, I find myself navigating a couple of the busiest weeks of my year. Between hosting Thanksgiving dinner, preparing for dessert (with some much-appreciated help from my mom), packing for an international trip to Prague, and starting a new job just days after I return, it feels like my to-do list has taken on a life of its own. Can you relate?
The truth is, while this time of year is often painted as joyful and magical, it’s also full of stress, juggling, and the pressure to make everything perfect. But over the years, I’ve learned that finding confidence and calm amidst the chaos is possible. It’s not about doing everything flawlessly but about finding balance, grace, and gratitude in the whirlwind. Here’s what’s helping me get through this season with my sanity intact:
1. Plan, Prioritize, and Let Go of Perfection
When you’re juggling hosting, traveling, and major life transitions, the first step is acknowledging that you can’t do it all—and that’s okay. I’ve learned to prioritize what matters most. For Thanksgiving, that means focusing on a few key dishes that my family loves and letting others pitch in where they can. Dessert for eleven? Thanks to my mom, that’s one task I don’t have to worry about this year!
Instead of striving for a Pinterest-perfect table setting, I’m focusing on what this holiday is really about: gathering with loved ones and creating memories. The little imperfections—the burned rolls or mismatched plates—are often the moments we laugh about later.
2. Delegate Like a Boss
As women, we often take on way more than our share of responsibilities during the holidays. But here’s a secret: You don’t have to. Delegating tasks to family members, whether it’s peeling potatoes, setting the table, or even bringing a dish to share, not only lightens your load but also brings everyone into the spirit of teamwork.
This year, my mom has graciously taken on dessert duty, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Whether it’s a simple dish or an elaborate recipe, knowing someone else is handling part of the meal is such a relief. For my upcoming trip, I'm planning mix and match outfits ahead of time as well as scheduling some spa time while we're away.
3. Embrace Moments of Gratitude
Amidst the stress, it’s so important to pause and find moments of gratitude. For me, that might look like stepping outside for a breath of fresh air between basting the turkey and prepping side dishes. It might be taking a quiet moment at the table to soak in the laughter and warmth of my family. Gratitude has a way of shifting perspective, reminding us why we’re putting in the effort in the first place.
4. Carve Out Time for Self-Care
Even during the busiest weeks, self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. For me, that might mean a quick morning gratitude journal session, 10 minutes of stretching to center myself, or sneaking away for a bubble bath after the dishes are done (let your hubs do them!). These small but intentional acts of care help me recharge so I can keep showing up for the people and tasks that need me.
5. Give Yourself Grace
If there’s one thing I want you to take away from this, it’s that you’re doing enough. Whether you’re hosting a picture-perfect Thanksgiving or ordering takeout after a long day, the effort you’re putting in matters. Life is messy, especially during the holidays, but it’s also beautiful. So let’s give ourselves permission to embrace the mess, savor the beauty, and let go of the pressure to have it all together. Please remember, no one is looking in that messy closet that you think you have to clean out!
As I prepare for the whirlwind of the coming weeks—Thanksgiving, Prague, and a brand-new job—I’m leaning on these lessons to guide me through. My hope is that they inspire you too. The holiday season doesn’t have to be about perfection; it can be about presence, joy, and finding confidence in the chaos.
Here’s to navigating the hustle with grace—and a whole lot of gratitude.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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