Like many people, I look forward to the holiday season all year long. The holidays evoke warmth, laughter, and picturesque memories. But…it also comes with an implicit pressure to create an experience that meets everyone’s expectations. As a result, we meticulously decorate, plan every detail, and scroll through social media for inspiration in our pursuit of the perfect vacation. (Literally, Nancy Meyers holiday ) When we strive for perfection and fall into holiday perfectionism, we often overlook what makes this time truly special. We strive for the perfect image, but we miss out on connection, presence, and joy.
Holiday perfectionism can cause even the simplest traditions to become a source of stress. Hello, I’m overwhelmed. It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that seamless gatherings and beautiful homes are essential to the magic of the holidays. However, perfectionism creates barriers that blind us to the imperfect beauty of this time of year. By letting go of the urge to control every outcome, we can have a more relaxed holiday season. It’s filled with genuine connection, spontaneous joy, and the kind of warmth that comes from just being with loved ones.
Featured image from interview with Devon Liedtke Anastasia Pudova.
How to fight holiday perfectionism and embrace genuine joy
Ahead, we’ll (finally!) explore ways to let go of holiday perfectionism, from setting boundaries to embracing self-compassion. She shares thoughtful tips for reframing expectations, saying no to overcommitment, and finding joy in the present. Think of this as a gentle path to a vacation that’s as comfortable as it looks. Because it’s true. Creating a truly fulfilling holiday season is an art, and presence, not perfection, is the ultimate gift.
Why do we experience holiday perfectionism?
Holiday perfectionism often stems from expectations that set high standards for celebrations. We are constantly surrounded by perfectly styled images on social media and Hallmark-coded movies presenting the ideal version of the season.
At the same time, holiday traditions can become a source of stress due to the urge to relive childhood memories. Nostalgia can lead us to pursue idealized versions of past celebrations. They also tend to get disappointed when things don’t go as planned. The “comparison trap” makes this even more difficult. As we scroll through social media, it’s easy to evaluate our lives unfiltered against these cherry-picked highlights. This can make them feel like they’re underachieving and ultimately take them away from the true spirit of the season.
Embrace imperfection: change your mindset
Instead of fixating on the perfect celebration, try reframing your goals to focus on connection and joy. Think about what makes the holidays special for you and your loved ones. It may be sharing a meal, sharing memories, or simply enjoying each other’s company. By putting joy at the center of your celebration, you can let go of the need for everything to be perfect.
Another important step is to identify what is really important to you during your vacation. Make a conscious effort to prioritize family, friends, and quality time over your holiday appearance. Setting intentions instead of rigid expectations can prevent stress. Instead of worrying about how things should be, think about what you want to experience during your vacation. By establishing realistic intentions and being flexible, you can enjoy a holiday season that is more about presence than perfection.
How to let go of perfectionism during the holidays
It all starts with making celebrations more manageable. Start by planning carefully. Outline your holiday tasks and prioritize what’s really important. Simplifying your plan will help you avoid the overwhelm that can occur when trying to do everything. (Has anyone else participated?) Focus on the main points. In other words, keep what resonates and let go of everything that doesn’t.
Delegation is also important. Don’t be afraid to accept help from family and friends. Believe me, people love to help, and it’s an easy way to bring everyone together. While it can be difficult not to have every detail under control, I’ve learned that accepting support can bring unexpected joy.
Finally, don’t forget to stay healthy during this busy season. Whether it’s breathing exercises or mindfulness, it’s important to give yourself plenty of rest, even if it’s just mindfully enjoying your favorite holiday treat. By focusing on the present, you’ll be more in tune with the magic of the moment.
Set boundaries and manage holiday stress
Setting boundaries is essential to managing stress. Start by having an honest conversation with your family about your needs. Setting boundaries carefully will help everyone understand what they can realistically handle. It’s perfectly okay to express your limitations and prioritize your mental health amidst the hustle and bustle.
Another important step is to avoid overcommitting. It’s okay to say no to events and tasks that don’t fit into your schedule or resonate with your priorities. Focus on gatherings and activities that truly bring you joy. (Cookie exchange? I’ll be there.) Finally, don’t forget to set aside time for self-care. The holiday season can be busy and exhausting, so check in with yourself regularly. Get inspired by Camille’s holiday night self-care ritual. Whether it’s a moment of quiet reflection, a favorite hobby, or just a moment of rest, taking care of yourself can help you enjoy the season even more.
Learn how to embrace imperfect holidays
Letting go of the pressure of perfectionism allows you to open yourself up to spontaneous moments and shared memories.
Over the years, I’ve realized that the beauty of the seasons lies in their unpredictability. These small problems and unexpected events often become the most important stories to tell for years to come.
Embrace chaos and imperfection. When things *inevitably* don’t match your expectations, shift your focus to what’s important: your loved ones, heartfelt conversations, and the joy of being together. By prioritizing authenticity over idealized vacations, we can create a more fulfilling season that celebrates the beauty and messiness of humanity. Take a step back, take a deep breath, and enjoy this time of connection and love without the weight of perfectionism.
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com
