Staying Present During the Holiday Season (Even When Life Feels Overwhelming)

The holiday season has a way of showing up all at once.

Calendars fill quickly. Expectations rise. There are gifts to buy, meals to plan, deadlines to meet, and for many people, big life decisions still unfolding, including buying or selling a home. Even in a season meant for joy, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly racing toward the next thing instead of actually living in the moment you’re in.

This time of year reminds me how important it is to slow down, intentionally.

Presence Isn’t About Doing Less

It’s About Being Where You Are

We often think staying present means clearing our schedules or creating perfect, peaceful moments. But most of us don’t have that luxury, especially during the holidays.

Presence is simpler than that.

It’s giving your full attention to what’s in front of you, even when life feels busy:

• Listening instead of multitasking
  
  
• Enjoying a moment without documenting it
  
  
• Letting go of the need for everything to be “perfect”
  
  

Whether you’re hosting family, juggling work, or navigating a major transition like a move, being present doesn’t require less responsibility, just a gentler mindset.

Create Small Pauses Throughout the Day

You don’t need a full day off or a retreat to feel grounded. Sometimes presence is found in the smallest pauses:

• Taking a deep breath before opening your email
  
  
• Stepping outside for fresh air between appointments
  
  
• Sitting in your car for a minute before heading into the next commitment
  
  

These short moments help reset your nervous system and remind you that you’re allowed to slow down, even briefly.

Let Go of “Holiday Perfection”

The pressure to make the holidays magical can be exhausting. Perfect homes, perfect meals, perfect plans, they exist mostly on social media.

Real life is messier. And that’s okay.

The memories that last usually come from connection, not perfection. A cluttered kitchen filled with laughter is far more meaningful than a spotless house with no time to enjoy it.

Be Honest About What You Need

This season can bring joy, but it can also bring grief, stress, or uncertainty, especially if you’re in a season of change.

Give yourself permission to:

• Say no when you need rest
  
  
• Ask for help when things feel heavy
  
  
• Simplify traditions if they no longer serve you
  
  

Being present also means being honest with yourself about what you can handle.

Carry This Into the New Year

As we move toward the end of the year, it’s natural to reflect, on where we’ve been and where we’re going. Whether you’re settling into a new home, preparing for a move, or simply dreaming about what’s next, remember that the present moment is where life is actually happening.

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give ourselves, and others, is our full attention.

Wishing you a season filled with moments that feel grounded, warm, and truly lived.