Simplifying Christmas: How I’m Avoiding Burnout This Year

The festive season is magical, but let’s be real—it can also be exhausting. Between decorating, hosting parties, shopping, baking, and managing work deadlines, it’s easy to burn out before Christmas Day even arrives. I’ve been there: going all out every year, only to feel too drained to enjoy the holiday when it finally came around.

This year, I decided to do things differently. After a tough year for my family, I’ve realized what truly matters, and it’s not the perfect table setting or a house full of decorations. It’s the precious moments with loved ones and creating memories that bring joy. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday chaos, here are some ways I’ve simplified Christmas to make it more meaningful and less stressful.

1. Scale Back the Decorations

In the past, my house was decked out in holiday cheer from top to bottom. This year, I only put up the tree and a few key decorations. Half my usual stash is still in the box, and you know what? No one has even noticed. Simplifying the decor saved me hours of work and made my space feel cozy without the extra effort.

2. Let Go of Timelines

Traditionally, our Christmas lights went up on December 1st, no exceptions. This year, we waited until mid-December and only put up a few lights instead of the whole display. It was low-pressure, fun, and just as festive.

3. Simplify Gift Shopping

Gift shopping can be one of the most stressful parts of Christmas. This year, I asked my loved ones what they wanted, bought vouchers, and did most of my shopping online while watching Netflix. A couple of short trips to the mall finished the job—stress-free and efficient.

4. Skip Hosting If You Need To

I love hosting Christmas get-togethers, but this year, I simply didn’t have the energy. And that’s okay. Sometimes saying no is the best gift you can give yourself.

5. Batch Work Before the Break

If you’re juggling work on top of holiday prep, batch-creating can be a lifesaver. I wrapped up my last client session early and spent a week batch-creating podcast episodes and social media content. This way, I can take a break without falling behind.

6. Manage Client Expectations

For designers and stylists working with tight client deadlines, communication is key. Set realistic expectations, and don’t overpromise on things you can’t control, like shipping or trades. Clients will understand delays if you’ve been upfront from the start.

7. Focus on What Truly Matters

When the chaos feels overwhelming, pause and ask yourself: What’s really important? For me, it’s spending time with my family, creating simple yet meaningful memories, and being grateful for the love and support around me.

This holiday season, let’s embrace simplicity and focus on what brings us joy. The decorations, gifts, and parties are nice, but they’re not what makes Christmas special. It’s the moments with loved ones and the memories we create that truly matter.

Katrina xx