Episode Title: Holiday Happiness – How to Plan Ahead and Find Joy Without the Stress
The holidays are just around the corner—are you ready?
Whether you’re the type to have your Christmas shopping done in September or you prefer to wing it, this episode is for you! Today, we’re diving into how planning ahead can transform your holiday season from chaotic to calm. With practical tips and personal stories, you’ll learn how to set boundaries, create new traditions, and design a holiday season that brings more joy and less stress.
Tips for Simplifying Your Holiday Plans
Inspired by Brené Brown’s approach to family vacations and my own happiness journey, I’ll show you how asking the right questions—of yourself and others—can lead to more meaningful holidays. This episode will help you reflect on last year, prioritize what matters, and prepare for the holiday season with intention and balance.
Let’s make this year’s holiday season your best one yet!
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- How planning ahead can help you avoid holiday overwhelm
- The importance of self-awareness in creating a holiday that works for you
- Why asking your loved ones what they really want can lead to less stress and more joy
- How to set healthy boundaries before the holidays start, so you can enjoy the season on your terms
- Simple, actionable steps to reflect on last year’s holiday and plan for a better one this year
The Importance of Self-Awareness To Create more Holiday Happiness
Key Takeaways:
- Reflect and Plan: Spend just 5 minutes thinking about what worked and what didn’t last year to create a plan that prioritizes what truly matters.
- Ask for Input: Don’t assume you know what everyone wants. Asking your family can lead to surprising answers that make planning easier.
- Set Boundaries Early: Decide what you’re willing to do (or not do) this year, and communicate those boundaries before the holidays hit.
- Prepare for Imperfections: Not every event will be perfect. Learn how to manage less-than-ideal situations with grace and positivity.
- New Traditions: Be brave enough to shake things up! Who knows? This might be the year you create a holiday tradition that brings more joy.
Resources Mentioned:
- My recent conversation with Diane Sorensen on setting healthy boundaries: EP#117
- The Brené Brown book I referenced about family Venn diagrams: The Gifts of Imperfection
Quotes from the Episode:
- “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.” — Alan Lakein
- “What if this year, you’re the one brave enough to try something different? You might just find more joy and peace in a simpler, more meaningful holiday.” – Bona Normandeau
Join the Conversation:
I’d love to hear how you’re planning for the holidays this year! Share your thoughts with me on The Happier You Face Book Group or in the comments below. What traditions are you keeping, and what new things are you trying? Let us join in on your Holiday Happiness: How to Plan Ahead and Find Joy Without the Stress
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