Your Powerful Permission Slip to a More Meaningful Holiday

QUOTE OF THE DAY

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DEEP DIVE

The holiday season often arrives wrapped in layers of commercial pressure and societal expectations. Beneath the glossy advertisements and perfectly curated social media posts, though, lies an opportunity to create something authentically meaningful.

If you’re in a leadership role, for example, you get to choose what makes your corporate event memorable and meaningful for your teams.

If you’re the leader of a family, scroll down to the list below for ideas to create experiences that have nothing to do with shopping lists.

Bake something. Make something. Be somewhere.

The goal isn’t to fill a scrapbook; it’s simply to be present.

Moving Beyond Commercial Pressures

The modern holiday season has become increasingly dominated by commercial influences, with endless advertisements and pressure to create picture-perfect celebrations.

At least we weren’t breaking down the door to get into our local big box store on the day after Thanksgiving, right? …Right?

This relentless focus on consumption often overshadows so much of the connection and quality time that could be possible when things slow down.

There are literally infinite ways to create memorable, meaningful holiday experiences! Here’s one of our favorite lists to get you started!

A few of our favorites from the list above:

• Find natural decorations to bring indoors (just remember to put them back outside…eventually)

• Learn about holiday traditions around the world

• Have a board game and popcorn night

• Build a cozy indoor fort

• Go sledding, snowshoeing, or ice skating (In a warm climate? Indoor skating works, too!)

Rather than following prescribed notions of holiday success, take time to reflect on what truly matters to you. This might mean celebrating in ways that don't match the traditional narrative but resonate deeply with your authentic self.

Tip #1: Break free from media influence

One solid step (and often, the first step of Starting Over!) is to limit your exposure to commercial messaging.

Consider taking breaks from social media, where carefully curated holiday posts can trigger comparison and anxiety. Instead, focus on activities that align with your personal values and bring genuine joy.

Tip #2: Consider what moments of the season bring you genuine joy and connection, and make more of them.

Is it sharing a simple meal with loved ones? Enjoying quiet moments of reflection? Or engaging in activities that spark creativity?

Tip #3: Create meaningful rituals.

Develop traditions that reflect your values and circumstances. This might include making handmade decorations, sharing stories and memories, or creating new family customs that can evolve over time.

Tip #4: Manage your social commitments.

Learn to say no to events that don't align with your values or energy levels. It's okay to be selective about your social calendar and prioritize activities that truly matter.

Tip #5: Set clear spending limits and stick to them.

There is so much pressure to ignore our pre-set budgets and get “just one more thing” to add to our gift-giving holidays, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Think of cost-free ways to celebrate the people you love without breaking the bank or engaging in excessive spending that’s bound to bring post-holiday stress. Consider alternatives like handmade gifts, shared experiences, or focusing on presence over presents.

Communication Strategies

Be clear and direct about your boundaries with family and friends, and use "I" statements to express your needs and decisions without apologizing. For example: "I've decided to keep our celebration simple this year," or "I'm choosing to focus on quality time rather than extensive gift-giving."

Need more tips? Consider these questions as you define your own version of holiday success:

What memories do you want to create?

How do you want to feel during the season?

What traditions truly enhance your experience?

What can you let go of without regret?

The most beautiful holiday moments often come from simple, heartfelt connections rather than perfectly executed plans. Give yourself permission to create a celebration that truly reflects your values and brings you peace.

As you navigate this holiday season, keep in mind that redefining success means honoring your authentic needs and desires. Focus on quality over quantity in all aspects of your celebration. This might mean fewer but more meaningful gifts, simpler decorations, or more intimate gatherings! Whether that means a quiet celebration at home or a completely reimagined holiday tradition, your choice to celebrate in a way that feels genuine to you is valid and worthy.

🎄 HOLIDAY TRIVIA 🎄

QUICK HITS

🎉 How to Create Holiday Corporate Events That Leave a Lasting Impression

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🎄 35 Meaningful Holiday Traditions That Prioritize What Matters Most

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🎵 The Song We Play on Repeat on Tough Days

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🎁 10 Tips for Mindful Gift-Giving

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WEEKLY CHALLENGE

The holidays don't have to overwhelm you!

This week-long challenge is designed to help you navigate the season with intention and self-compassion. Each day brings a simple focus to help you create space for authentic feelings while you manage the mashed potatoes and shopping lists.

Even if you just choose one of the days below to follow, it will be well worth it!

(Not subscribed to our Start Over Daily? You’ll want to pop into your subscription settings and add our daily wisdom emails to your inbox!)

Day 1: Permission to Pause

Today's focus is on conscious scheduling. Look at your calendar and ask:

• Which events truly bring you joy?

• What can you gracefully decline?

• Where can you create breathing room?

Today's Action: Remove one obligation that doesn't serve your well-being.

Coming up next? Day 2: Travel Time & Management.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

The holiday season doesn’t need to be a whirlwind of obligations, spending, and stress. It can be a time to reconnect with what truly matters to you—whether that’s quiet moments, meaningful traditions, or simply giving yourself permission to step back from the noise.

By focusing on what brings genuine joy and connection, you can create a celebration that feels intentional and grounded in your values. Remember, the most memorable moments often come from heartfelt simplicity, not elaborate perfection. Take it one step at a time, honoring your needs and making space for authentic peace and presence.

Here for you,

Start Over Kitty & The Permission to Start Over Team

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