The holidays often come wrapped in bright paper and warm wishes. But beneath the twinkling lights and cheerful music, many people feel something quite different—holiday stress.

There’s a lot on our plates: finding the perfect gift, traveling to see family, juggling finances, and managing jam-packed schedules.

In fact, one recent survey found that 79% of respondents felt the holiday season was more stressful than tax season.

Another statistic from the same survey revealed that 71% of people wished, once the holiday season was over, that they had spent more time relaxing and enjoying it rather than rushing around.

These numbers tell an important story: the holiday season, which is supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year,” can easily become the most overwhelming time of the year if we let it.

But we don’t have to accept stress as a given.

Instead, we can choose to slow down, be more present, and find joy in simpler moments.

Here are some ways to let go of holiday stress and enjoy the season:

Let Go of Perfection

One of the biggest holiday traps is the desire to make everything picture-perfect.

Maybe you’re searching for that ideal gift, cooking a complex meal, or trying to recreate the perfect holiday photo.

But perfection is not only hard to achieve—it’s often impossible.

Striving for it drains our energy and happiness.

This season, give yourself permission to let things be “good enough.”

Maybe your cookies aren’t all the same size, or maybe the tree looks a bit lopsided.

Embrace these small imperfections.

They remind us that we’re human.

And that the true meaning of the holidays comes from love and connection, not from flawless decorations or gourmet meals.

Plan with Purpose, Not Panic

Having a plan can help reduce holiday stress, but don’t let planning become another source of pressure.

Instead, think about what matters most to you this season.

Is it spending quality time with family, catching up with old friends, or finding a quiet moment to reflect on the year?

Focus on a few key activities that bring real meaning and let go of the rest.

If you don’t have time for five different parties, choose one or two that you truly care about.

If buying gifts for a long list of people feels overwhelming, consider giving simpler, more heartfelt presents or even donating to a charity in their name.

When you narrow down what’s important, you’ll have more time and energy to truly savor those experiences.

Remember the Value of Time Together

It’s easy to think that the perfect gift will bring the most holiday joy.

But often, it’s shared laughter, long conversations, and simple moments that create lasting memories.

Take time to sit around the table with family, listening to stories you’ve heard a hundred times.

Schedule a video call with faraway friends, or go for a walk around the neighborhood to see the lights.

These small moments of connection help you stay present.

They remind you that the reason we all do this—decorate, shop, cook—is to bring people together and show care.

The real holiday magic lies in human connection, not in getting everything just right.

Set Boundaries and Protect Your Peace

If you find yourself feeling rushed and anxious, it might be time to say “no” to a few things.

Remember, every time you say “yes” to something you don’t truly want to do, you’re taking time away from something you actually care about.

Setting boundaries might mean limiting your social media time (holiday posts can make us feel like we’re not doing enough) or politely turning down an event if you’re already feeling stretched thin.

Prioritizing your own well-being helps ensure you won’t reach the end of December feeling burned out.

Make Space for Quiet Moments

In all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to forget to pause and breathe.

Yet, these quiet moments are essential.

Try taking a short walk, sipping a cup of tea by the window, or just taking a few deep breaths whenever you feel tension building up.

Even five minutes of stillness can help you reset and remember what’s truly important.

This might also mean creating small, personal traditions for yourself.

Maybe it’s writing down one thing you’re grateful for each morning or listening to calming music before bed.

These little rituals can act like anchors, keeping you steady amid the holiday storm.

Reflect on the Year That’s Passing

While many of us rush toward a new year, let’s not forget to appreciate the one we’re leaving behind.

Instead of only looking ahead to January 1, ask yourself: What have I learned this year?

What moments are worth remembering?

Reflecting on these things can help you see the holidays as a time to slow down and celebrate how far you’ve come rather than racing to the next milestone.

Don’t Make It Something You Need to Recover From

Finally, the holidays shouldn’t be something that leaves you exhausted and in need of recovery when they’re over.

They’re meant to fill you up with warmth, not wear you down.

Remind yourself that it’s okay to step back from the frenzy.

Choose less holiday stress and more meaning.

That way, when the holidays end, you’ll feel nourished, not drained.

By understanding that holiday joy doesn’t come from perfect gifts, perfect meals, or perfect decorations, you free yourself.

It comes from heartfelt moments, honest laughter, shared kindness, and taking time to truly breathe and be present.

Let this holiday season be the one where you let go of the pressure to do it all, and instead, embrace the wonder of just being there, soaking in the magic.

Remember, you deserve to savor this time.

Don’t wait until it’s over to realize you wished you had slowed down.

Give yourself that gift now.

It will be one of the best gifts you can give to yourself this holiday season.