The holiday season is here, and with it comes the whirlwind of activities, gatherings, and to-do lists. This year, as I looked at my December calendar, I couldn’t help but laugh—it’s completely packed. Every. Single. Day.

Normally, I’m someone who fiercely protects my time. After my “Year of No,” where I learned to set firm boundaries and let go of overcommitting, I’ve been much better at saying no to things that don’t truly light me up. But this year, every single thing on my calendar is a “hell yes.” Each event, task, and outing feels aligned with what matters most to me. So here I am, facing a December that’s fuller than I’d like, but also incredibly meaningful.

When Saying No Isn’t the Answer

In the past, my first strategy for reducing holiday stress was cutting back—removing the things that didn’t feel essential. But this year, with so many “hell yeses,” I’ve had to approach things differently.

Instead of eliminating commitments, I’m focusing on being intentional about how I spend my time. Here’s what I’ve found works when you can’t (or don’t want to) take things off your plate:

1. Maximize Your Time
   I schedule everything. And I mean everything. From errands to holiday prep to even my downtime, it all gets a spot on my calendar. This helps me see where my time is going and ensures I’m not overloading myself on any given day.

For example, I knew I’d be short on time for shopping this year, so I delegated some tasks. Greg ran out to grab gifts, and Austin stepped up to wrap all of Kenzie’s presents. Delegating saved me hours, and honestly, they did an amazing job!

2. Simplify Traditions
   Not every holiday tradition needs to happen every year. This December, I’ve given myself permission to skip or modify traditions that feel like “too much.” For example, instead of baking five different kinds of cookies, I’m sticking to our top two favourites. The kids love them just as much, and I have fewer dishes to wash!

3. Focus on Priorities
   With so much on the go, I’ve become ruthless about prioritizing. I ask myself, “What absolutely needs to get done today?” The rest can wait. This approach not only keeps my stress in check but also allows me to fully enjoy the things that matter most.

How I’m Staying Grounded

Even with all the planning and simplifying, there are days when it feels like a lot. That’s when I remind myself to pause and breathe. I focus on being present—whether I’m wrapping gifts, attending a holiday party, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea.

Staying grounded doesn’t mean life slows down; it means finding peace in the midst of the hustle. It’s about honouring your limits, asking for help, and giving yourself grace when things don’t go perfectly.

What’s Your “Hell Yes”?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the holiday hustle, take a moment to reflect. What’s on your calendar that truly lights you up? What can you let go of or simplify? And who can you ask for help?

This season is meant to be joyful, but that joy doesn’t come from doing everything. It comes from focusing on what truly matters—to you, your family, and your heart.

Let’s all find our own ways to stay grounded this holiday season, one intentional step at a time.