It’s supposed to be “the most joyful time of the year.”  So why do I sometimes feel like the Grinch who is smirking at me from my new tumbler? Yes, I indulged and bought myself a blinged-out Grinch tumbler in November because one, I love the Grinch and loved this cup and two, I knew it would be a great reminder to take care of myself during this time of the year since along with the joy, always comes a bit of stress. I’ll share some tips of how to make the holidays a little less “grinchy” and stressful so more of the joy can come shining through. While these tips may seem common sense and “obvious,” reminders can be a good thing!


Plan Ahead: Make a list of tasks and prioritize them. This is always a great strategy throughout the year, but especially during the holidays. Last-minute stress can be a thing of the past with a great-looking list.

Getting Real with Expectations: Perfection is not where it’s at. Focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing over every detail and trying to achieve the Hallmark movie kind of holiday.


Break it down – with Breaks: Schedule some time to chill. It can be anything from a stroll around the block, reading a chapter of a heart-warming novel, doing a yoga pose or two, or anything else that gives you a break from the action. My favorite break is a holiday cartoon (YES, maybe even the Grinch) or a movie if I can fit in a longer great.

HINT: the funnier the movie the better! Think: Christmas Vacation, Christmas with the Kranks, Elf, or whatever brings smiles and laughter.

Keep it Moving: Being active can take the edge off stress. A short break of 10-15 minutes that includes being active is enough to give a needed boost and to keep the Grinch at bay.  And burning a few extra calories is a bonus!

Connect with Loved Ones: Spend time with family and friends. Social support is so important to our well-being and can really take the edge of stress.

Practice Gratitude: I have written several articles on gratitude for our readers and have a new column coming in 2025. Gratitude is where it’s at! Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This can shift your focus from stress to one of joy and positivity.

Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: While it may sound appealing to grab whatever is available to drink, alcohol and caffeine aren’t the best choices during busy and stressful times.

Ask for Help: Whether it is asking for help with a few tasks on the task list or talking to a professional for stress that becomes too overwhelming, asking for help is a GOOD thing. Ask yourself if you would want your loved ones to ask for needed help and then remind yourself, you are worthy of receiving needed help as well – and ask!

Taking care of yourself means the opportunity to see more of the “joy” and less of the Grinch – unless that’s the movie you are watching! 

Have a wonderful, joyous, and stress-less holiday.