The holidays are here, and for many moms juggling all the things, I know this season can feel like it’s another task to perfect instead of a time to cherish. Between decorating, shopping, baking, and maintaining traditions, it’s easy to slip into a mindset where perfection feels like the ultimate goal.

But let’s pause for a moment.

Will your kids remember the perfectly wrapped gifts or your tree’s color scheme? Or will they remember the simple, beautiful moments – watching movies in pajamas, laughing over burnt cookies, or singing holiday songs together?

Letting go of perfection doesn’t mean letting go of care. You can still go all out on decorations or whatever brings you joy. It’s about doing that with intention and ensuring your focus remains on what truly matters: being present for the moments that make the season special.

Making presence your priority

Knowing the importance of presence is one thing. Honoring it in a busy, high-stress season is a challenge. What’s amazing is that when we shift focus to being present, there’s automatically less space for stress.

To truly embrace this mindset, consider these small but powerful steps:

1. Simplify your schedule
Take a hard look at your to-do list. Are there tasks you can delegate, skip, or simplify? Maybe this year, instead of hosting an elaborate meal, you serve a family-style potluck. Or instead of shopping for the perfect gift, you create a meaningful experience together.

2. Set boundaries around your time
You can’t be everywhere at once. Prioritize the events and traditions that bring you and your family the most joy, and gracefully say no to the rest. Communicate clearly about your time and energy limits. Know that it’s okay to say no to events that overwhelm you (and consider that by doing so, you’re saying yes to those that matter most).

3. Create space for connection
Sometimes, presence simply means slowing down. Block out time for no-agenda family moments: baking cookies, sharing stories, or cozying up for a holiday movie night. These unscripted, imperfect times are where the real magic lives.

4. Practice mindfulness daily
Presence is a practice, not a switch you flip. Even a few minutes of mindfulness each day – breathing deeply, journaling, or meditating – can help you stay grounded and show up fully for your family. The box breathing technique below is is my go-to when I start to feel stressed.

5. Practice a bit of self-care
Being present and showing up intentionally requires your needs are taken care of. No one can do this but you. Maintain healthy habits like regular sleep and exercise. Engage in activities that recharge you, such as reading, walking, or yoga. Schedule time for activities that bring you peace. Invest in yourself so you can invest in others.

Tips for creating a meaningful and balanced holiday season

The holiday season can be a joyful time, but it also brings financial pressures and emotional stress. By focusing on balance, connection, and intentionality, you can navigate this time of year with more ease and meaning.

And don’t forget to breathe. 🙂 When I feel stress coming on, this box breathing technique is my go-to!

Here are some simple yet powerful strategies to nurture both your financial and emotional wellness while creating a meaningful season:

• Set a budget and track expenses: Create a realistic holiday spending plan and stick to it. Staying mindful of your finances can help you avoid post-holiday stress and feel more in control.

• Connect through kindness: Reach out to someone who might be feeling lonely. A small gesture, like delivering cookies to an elderly neighbor or writing a heartfelt note, can brighten their day – and yours.

• Give back together: Involve your family in acts of generosity, like volunteering at a food pantry or adopting a family in need. Not only does this create connection, but it also reinforces the true spirit of the season.

• Lean on your support system: When overwhelmed, open up to friends or loved ones—you might discover they feel the same. If this time feels particularly heavy, consider reaching out for professional support like therapy.

• Focus on thoughtful gifting: Choose meaningful presents like personalized or handmade items instead of expensive gifts.

• Choose to gift experiences: A  shared meal or an activity create lasting memories and are a great way to spend time together.

Local DC-area holiday experiences

Here’s some ideas for experiences to get you in the holiday spirit!

• National Christmas Tree: Visit the National Christmas Tree on the White House Ellipse, surrounded by trees decorated with handmade ornaments from U.S. states and territories.

• Holiday Market: Visit the Downtown Holiday Market in DuPont, offering local vendors and festive decor. Walk around sipping hot cocoa (I like to bring magnesium to add to mine!)

• Outdoor Movie: Bundle up and watch a holiday movie along the Potomac. 

• Ice Skating: I love the backdrop of the ice rink at the Sculpture Gardens

• Holiday Display: The US Botanic Gardens has a beautiful holiday garden display!

By focusing on connection, thoughtful action, and balance, you’ll create a holiday season that feels fulfilling and joyful—not overwhelming.

Let the Magic Unfold

When you prioritize what matters most, you’ll discover the magic has been there all along.

Ask Yourself:

• What are you doing to ensure you’re as present as you want to be this holiday season?

• How can you shift your focus from perfection to presence?

Here’s the truth: You don’t need to create a picture-perfect holiday. You just need to make it intentionally yours. Your presence is the most cherished gift you can give. This year, offer it freely. Embrace the imperfect, the spontaneous, and the real moments that fill your home with joy. 

The holidays are magical – not because of how much we do, but because of how we show up. When you let go of the illusion of perfection, you make space for what truly matters: love, connection, and the kind of memories that linger for a lifetime.