The importance of making time for you this Christmas

Christmas should be something that we look forward to. Time away from work. Time spent with loved ones. Time to do things that make us happy. Whilst in theory it all sounds perfect, the reality is often very different.

Often in the countdown to this special festive time, we find ourselves overwhelmed and anxious for a number of reasons. This holiday season in particular can be very expensive, with pressure to buy gifts, food, and new clothes. Add to this unrealistic expectations, increased obligations relating to hosting, worries about family dynamics and the sheer number of tasks involved and it’s no wonder than many of us are exhausted well in advance of the big day.

You can’t pour from an empty cup

So this Christmas why not do something different. Instead of prioritising everyone else and their needs, try to put yourself first for a change.  After all self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. By taking time to look after, and be kind, to yourself you will have more positive energy to show up fully for the people you love.

Making time for yourself this Christmas is crucial for maintaining your well-being, as it helps reduce stress, prevent burnout, and allows you to be more present and enjoy time with loved ones. Setting boundaries, saying no, indulging in relaxing activities, and giving yourself permission to pause can lead to a more balanced and fulfilling holiday season where you are not in danger of spreading yourself too thinly.

Perfection doesn’t exist

It’s worth pointing out that the most wonderful time of the year isn’t about perfection or how much everything cost — it’s about feeling connected, present, and at peace with yourself and those you love. It’s also about keeping focused on the important things - spending time with family and friends, showing generosity and compassion towards others, and engaging in traditions of reflection and celebration.

Hopefully, by following my top tips, you will be able to prioritise your own well-being, so you can approach Christmas with a sense of joy, balance, and gratitude.

1.     Create a budget so you’re not tempted to overspend.

2.     Plan and do as much preparation as you can in advance.

3.     Decline social events, or any other commitments, that make you feel anxious.

4.     Steer clear of social media so you’re not tempted to compare your Christmas to other peoples’ experiences.

5.     Manage your expectations; the perfect Christmas only exists in films and books. 

6.     Make time for doing things that you enjoy – walking, reading, watching films, exercise etc.

7.     Get some fresh air. Go for a walk, being outside will help you to decompress and keep things in perspective.

8.     Prioritise sleep and make sure you have regular breaks to rest and recharge.

9.     Delegate jobs to family members, friends etc. so you can share the responsibilities.

10.  Spend time with supportive people who you like and who won’t expect too much of you.

 Double the benefits

The best part about making time for yourself is that it doesn’t just help you—it helps everyone around you too. When you’re feeling calm and balanced, you can enjoy the celebrations more and be fully present for your loved ones.

So, my advice is for you to let go of the pressure to do it all, and instead focus on simply being. By giving yourself a break from everything, you will reap substantial mental, physical, and emotional health benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood and focus so you will be able to have more fun and embrace the magic of the season.

Happy Christmas to you all and best wishes for a wonderful 2026.