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Writer's pictureJulia Maslava

Setting Boundaries During the Holidays: How to Prioritize Your Well-Being

The holiday season brings so much joy—festive lights, time with loved ones, delicious food—but it can also bring something less welcome: overwhelm. Between juggling social gatherings, gift shopping, cooking, and hosting, it’s easy to find yourself stretched thin. I’ve been there myself, caught between the magic of the season and the exhaustion that comes with saying “yes” to everything. Over the years, I’ve learned that the best gift you can give yourself—and everyone around you—is the ability to set healthy boundaries.


A Sticky Note

In this post, I’d love to share a few heartfelt tips for protecting your energy and prioritizing your well-being during the holidays. Let’s talk about how to find balance, honor your needs, and enjoy the season without feeling like you have to do it all.


1. Define What Matters Most to You for Setting Boundaries


Before the holiday chaos sweeps you up, take some time to reflect on what’s most important to you. Is it spending time with close family? A quiet evening to recharge? Creating new traditions?

For me, it’s always been about meaningful moments—like baking cookies with my favorite music playing or catching up with someone I’ve truly missed. I’ve learned that when I focus on these priorities, it’s easier to let go of things that don’t align with what I value.


A digital planner can be a great tool for this. Use it to jot down your holiday priorities and make space for what truly fills your heart.


2. Practice Saying “No” with Kindness


One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that saying “no” doesn’t make you a bad person—it makes you a thoughtful one. The truth is, you can’t attend every party, bake for every potluck, or participate in every Secret Santa exchange without sacrificing your own energy.


Here’s a phrase I’ve come to love:

“Thank you so much for thinking of me. I wish I could join, but I already have a lot on my plate.”


It’s polite, clear, and allows you to maintain relationships without overcommitting. And remember, when you say “no” to something that doesn’t serve you, you’re saying “yes” to your own peace.


3. Set Clear Expectations


If you’re hosting or participating in family gatherings, let others know your limits in advance. For example, if the thought of hosting a day-long holiday party makes your chest tighten, suggest a simpler option:

  • A shorter gathering, like a brunch instead of dinner.

  • A potluck where everyone contributes to the meal.

  • Setting an end time so you can enjoy downtime afterward.


It’s a small adjustment, but it makes a world of difference in protecting your energy.


4. Carve Out Time for Yourself


The holidays have a way of filling every available moment if you let them, so make sure to block out time for yourself. It doesn’t have to be long—even 15 minutes to enjoy a cup of tea in silence or read a few pages of a favorite book can feel restorative.


One of my favorite ways to recharge is using my Wellness Planner to schedule small moments of self-care into my day. Whether it’s a quick walk, a cozy journaling session, or simply sitting by the fire and breathing deeply, these moments help me stay grounded.


5. Don’t Feel Guilty for Resting


Here’s something I remind myself every holiday season: Rest is not laziness. Rest is essential.


It’s easy to feel like you’re “failing” if you’re not constantly doing something during the holidays. But stepping away for a nap, a quiet moment, or even an entire day to recharge is often the best thing you can do. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.


This year, give yourself a permission to rest without guilt. And trust me, it’s a gift worth giving yourself.


6. Honor Your Boundaries with Compassion


There will be moments when your boundaries are tested—when someone asks you to take on just *one more thing* or questions why you’re not participating in something. It can feel uncomfortable, but standing firm in your boundaries is a powerful act of self-love.


When those moments come, remember this: Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re bridges. They’re not about keeping people out—they’re about making space for deeper, more authentic connections by honoring what you need.


7. Reflect and Adjust as Needed


As the season unfolds, take time to check in with yourself. Are your boundaries working? Are there areas where you feel stretched too thin?


Use your digital planner to journal your thoughts, reflect on how you’re feeling, and adjust your approach if needed. I like to do this once a week during the holidays—it helps me stay connected to what matters and avoid burnout.


The holidays are a time to celebrate, yes—but they’re also a time to slow down, connect, and savor the little moments that make this season magical. By setting boundaries, you create the space to do just that.


So, take a deep breath, give yourself permission to prioritize your well-being, and remember: The most beautiful holidays are the ones where you feel present, at peace, and truly yourself.


If you’re looking for tools to help you stay grounded and organized this season, explore my digital planners. They’re designed to support your journey toward balance and intentional living, no matter how busy life gets. Let’s create a holiday season that feels as good as it looks.


Digital Planners

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