Holidays Done Light

The holiday season is here, bringing all the sparkle, Black Friday bargains, cool events, and holiday-themed goodies, like my favorite... the peppermint mocha in that festive cup! This kicks off weeks of parties, big meals, and spending that can throw off your plans for a less hectic schedule, getting in shape, and saving money.

But it doesn't have to...

Let's spend some time imagining your perfect holiday season...

How's your holiday going?

What's it smell, taste, and look like?

Who are you hanging out with?

What are the best things you're enjoying?

How are you handling stress and taking care of yourself?

Holding that vision clearly, let's walk through how to make it happen:

SYNC UP with your beloved. How do your holiday dreams line up when it comes to 1) budget, 2) number of events, and 3) how you're spending your time? To make holiday magic happen, you will need to be on the same page.

SHARE your dream holiday plans with your friends and family and ask them to be a part of it. It's a good idea to start talking about it now to set the vibe for the season. If you're working on setting boundaries, jot down what you envision and want for the season, say it out loud to yourself a few times, or practice sharing it with a supportive friend. Those who care about you will respect your boundaries.

Pick the dates, people, and places that make your soul happy.

EVENTS and festivities will quickly fill up your calendar until it's bursting with glee. Pick the dates, people and places that make your soul sing. Have trouble saying "No"? Take some inspiration from Courtney Carver of Be More With Less, for 10 Simple Ways to Help You Say No.

GIFTS have become something we all expect. Have you thought about shaking things up this season with a gift-free holiday? Or maybe try alternatives like only giving gifts to kids, doing a Pollyanna exchange, or a secret Santa. You could also start a "book I love" swap, give to charity, offer your time, or plan an experience instead of buying stuff. For inspiration, check out Joshua Becker from Becoming Minimalist for 35 Gifts Your Children Will Never Forget and 99 Clutter-Free Gifts.

The people who care about you don't want you going into debt to get them gifts.

BUDGET your holiday spending ahead of time. How much are you comfortable spending this season? Some folks are happy with $250, while others might go for $1,000 or more. Whatever works for you, try to use cash or your debit card. The people who care about you don't want you going into debt to get them gifts.

TRADITIONS are a wonderful part of the holiday season, and you can tweak them to match your style and budget. If a certain tradition isn't working for you, why not create a new or updated version that fits your vision better? This could mean turning your big event into a cozy potluck or a fun dessert and hot cocoa bar, organizing a cookie decorating party for the kids, moving your family holiday dinner to a restaurant, or even skipping the gathering altogether for a laid-back beach getaway.

Make room for those unexpected moments when you're not feeling your best.

GRIEF hits us all, and holidays often bring back memories of those we've lost. Give yourself space to mourn your loved ones, and make room for those unexpected moments when you're not feeling your best. Check out the podcast Grief is a Sneaky Bitch by social worker and widow turned grief activist Lisa Keefauver, founder of Reimagining Grief, for some support. When it all feels overwhelming and the lure of retail therapy is calling with its fa la la la la, remember you're not alone. *hugs*

TRAVEL can add some extra time, hassle, and cost to your holidays. Try giving yourself some wiggle room in your schedule to make the journey more comfortable and stress-free. Instead of a long drive, break it up into shorter trips with a chill overnight stay or a fun side trip. Play around with your travel dates or times to find cheaper flights. Book early and steer clear of the busiest travel days, like those around Thanksgiving. For more smart holiday travel tips, check out blog posts like 7 Ways to Save Money on Holiday Travel, 29 Travel Tips to Keep you Sane and Happy, and Top 10 Survival Tips for Holiday Travel.

Let your creativity run wild and light up your vision this holiday season. Get started now and watch your holidays become more joyful and stress-free than ever!

Wishing you the most abundant and joyful holiday season!

With love,