Relationships
The festive season is a time of joy and togetherness, but for many mothers, it also comes with heightened stress and pressure. The invisible labour of managing the home becomes even more obvious as we strive for perfection in every detail, and it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that Christmas is meant to be enjoyable for you too.
To help you find a balance without feeling too overwhelmed, here are some ways you can prioritise your well-being while still making Christmas special for your family and you.
Recognise the Burden of Invisible Labour
Christmas often amplifies the invisible labour many mothers carry year-round: the planning, organising, and emotional work that goes into running a household. Acknowledge the toll this can take on your mental health and talk openly with your partner or family about the imbalance. Share the workload where possible, even if it means delegating tasks that others might not do “your way.” Read Dr Morgan Cutlip’s guide to help you and your partner get on the same team for the holidays. It’s okay to let go of perfection – what matters is that the load is shared and you enjoy the Christmas period too.
Say No to Unnecessary Obligations
The Christmas season can feel full of expectations, with invitations, events, and activities pulling you in every direction. If saying yes to everything feels overwhelming, it’s okay to decline the invitations. Prioritise what matters most to you and your family, and give yourself permission to let go of the rest.
Set Realistic Expectations
It’s tempting to aim for a picture-perfect Christmas, but often, it’s the little, unplanned moments that stick with us. Your children are more likely to remember the laughter over a family board game than whether the wrapping paper coordinated. Give yourself permission to simplify and embrace the imperfections. By focusing on the moments that matter most rather than ticking off an impossible to-do list, you’ll create memories that feel rich and real, not overwhelming.
Carve Out 10 Minutes for Yourself
Even on the busiest days, finding a few minutes to pause can be a game-changer. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea in peace, stepping outside for some fresh air, or simply sitting quietly with your thoughts, these small acts of self-care can help you feel calmer and more present. Don’t be tempted to use these 10 minutes to Insta-scroll – put your phone away and decompress properly.
Prioritise Sleep and Rest
With so much to do, it’s easy to sacrifice sleep to squeeze in those last few tasks. But being well-rested can make the season feel much more enjoyable… it’s your holiday time too! If possible, ask your partner or family to help with evening tasks like tidying or wrapping, so you can get to bed a little earlier. A good night’s sleep isn’t just for your benefit – it helps you show up for your family with more energy and joy the next day.
Practice Gratitude
While it’s not always easy, being grateful for the positives in life can have a profound impact on our mood, outlook, and overall well-being. Start or end the day by listing three things you’re grateful for. It could be as simple as having time off work during Christmas, having loved ones to celebrate with, or a cuddle and kiss from your little one. Gratitude shifts your focus if you’re feeling stressed, and helps maintain a positive mindset. It’s not about dismissing the challenges of the season but about finding joy in the things that make it special.
Limit Social Media
Although social media can be a fun way to share the season, it can also create pressure to meet unrealistic standards. If scrolling leaves you feeling stressed or comparing your celebrations to others, consider stepping back. Focus instead on what’s happening in your own home… the magic, the messes, the love.
Remember It’s Okay to Ask for Help
There’s often a lot on your plate during Christmas, and it’s more than okay to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s asking a friend to watch the kids for an hour, enlisting your partner to share the load, or venting to someone who understands, reaching out can make a big difference. You don’t have to do it all alone, and letting others pitch in helps lighten the load.
Be Kind to Yourself
Christmas can sometimes feel like a juggling act, and it’s easy to be hard on yourself if things don’t go to plan. Remind yourself that you’re doing enough and let go of guilt if things don’t go exactly as planned. Celebrate the effort you’ve put in, and make sure to carve out some space to enjoy the festivities yourself. After all, Christmas is for you too.
