Planning for Christmas
Finding Joy Beyond the Holiday Hustle
Do you ever feel like you're falling behind during the holidays? I know I do. Every December, it feels like an inner perfectionist monster emerges, pushing me to do it all. I want the decorations to be picture-perfect, every corner of the house filled with Christmas cheer. I dream of baking every kind of cookie imaginable, covering the kitchen in sprinkles and holiday aromas. And the presents? Oh, they simply must be wrapped in a way that turns heads and inspires awe!
Then there are all the holiday events—the parades, light displays, and festive gatherings. It’s as if every invitation whispers, You can’t miss this, it’s part of the magic! The list of to-dos piles up so high that I often end up overwhelmed, wondering how on earth I’ll manage to do it all.
But here’s the truth: These expectations aren’t realistic. The hustle and bustle that surrounds us during the holidays can steal our joy if we let it. The healthier choice—the better choice—is to slow down, take a breath, and let go of what doesn’t truly matter.
When I think about it, I know I’m not the only one feeling this way. Many of us are caught in the same cycle, trying to live up to impossible standards. But the truth is, none of us need that kind of pressure.
The most important moments of the holidays aren’t about flawless decorations, perfect cookies, or jaw-dropping gift wrap. They’re about spending time with loved ones and savoring the joy of the season. When we focus on what truly matters—our family, our faith, and the joy of being together—our lives take on a rhythm of peace. It’s a rhythm that looks less like the chaotic hustle of the world and more like a life we actually want to live.
This year, as I planned for Christmas, I decided to make joy a priority in our home. I wanted to embrace small, quiet moments—those cozy evenings when the world slows down, and I can simply sit back and savor the season. I realized I didn’t want the media’s version of a perfect Christmas to dictate how I celebrate.
Micheal, my rock, has always had this wonderful way of staying calm and grounded. For him, the hustle and pressure don’t even register—he just wants to enjoy the moment. This year, I wanted to follow his example.
And you know what? I’ve done it. I’ve embraced a slower, more joyful Christmas. I’ve found a sense of peace that comes from letting go of expectations and focusing on what matters. Sitting in my office now, I glance over at the Christmas tree. It’s not perfect—far from it. It’s small, humble, and decorated simply. But every time I see it, it reminds me of the joy this season is all about.
A Season of Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love
Christmas is so much more than a to-do list or a flurry of activity. It’s a season of hope, joy, peace, and love. When I stopped worrying about perfection—about impressing others or meeting impossible standards—I found I could embrace the true gifts of the season.
God offers us these gifts daily, if we’re willing to receive them. Hope that shines even in uncertainty. Joy that fills our hearts in the simplest of moments. Peace that calms the chaos around us. Love that reminds us we’re never alone.
I want to encourage you to embrace those gifts this season. Let go of the hustle. Trust that what you’ve planned, what you’ve prepared, is enough. You don’t need the perfect home, eye-catching gifts, or a feast worthy of a magazine spread. All you need is the true spirit of Christmas: Christ.
Resources to Help You Slow Down
To help ease your mind during the holidays, I’ve created a free PDF guide that I hope will bring you peace and encouragement.
If you’re looking for something more, I’ve also put together a full Christmas Planner available in my Etsy store. This planner is designed to help you stay organized while keeping your focus on what truly matters—making space for joy, peace, and love this season.
