Managing Holiday Stress

Running at 100%?

How to Slow Down When Life Won’t

Do you ever feel like you’re running at 100% just to keep up? Between work, home, and everything else, life feels full. Then the holidays roll in with their parties, planning, and pressure to make everything magical, and suddenly even the smallest things feel heavy.

We’ve heard, “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” and yet we keep trying to do just that. We push through the exhaustion, tell ourselves we’ll rest after the holidays, and wear “busy” like it’s a badge of honor. But that hustle mentality takes a toll, drains energy, clouds your focus, and makes it harder to actually enjoy what you’ve worked so hard for.

How do you slow down without everything falling apart? Implement these small shifts to bring calm to the chaos.

1. Notice your warning lights

You wouldn’t ignore the check-engine light in your car (at least I hope you wouldn’t!), but we do it all the time with our bodies. When you catch yourself sighing a lot,

clenching your jaw, or losing patience faster than usual, that’s your internal dashboard flashing “maintenance required.” Deliberately take three slow, deep breaths,

fully expanding your belly and slowly releasing the air to reset.

2. Ask “what actually matters”

When your list is too long, everything feels urgent. Step back and ask, “What really matters right now?” During the holidays, that might mean letting go of 'Pinterest-

worthy' and leaning into meaningful instead.

3. Take back your time 

Reclaim little pockets of time throughout your day. Step away from your desk for 5 minutes, eat your lunch or a snack without multitasking. Those pauses—short or long—are what keep you running smoothly. 

4. Trade criticism for compassion 

That inner voice that says “you should be doing more” isn’t helping. Try softening it with, “I’m doing my best, and that’s enough today.” When we are already stressed, the last thing we need is to be a bully to ourselves. 

When you take care of yourself first, you show up calmer, clearer, and more present for the people and moments that matter most. 

(Oh, and if you are ignoring your car's check engine light, it's probably crying tiny, metallic tears, and you both deserve maintenance this week!) 

So… — what small shift would make the biggest difference for you right now

Everyday Expert articles are provided by Industry Leaders.

This month’s contributing writer is: Jeannie Daffron Owner- Living Wellness LLC