Self Care During the Holidays

Are you on your list this year? Self care is important all year, but especially during the holiday season. There are a lot of expectations on us during this time of year, so I want to share some of my best tips for self care during the holidays in today’s blog.

This post was sponsored by Paper Source.

Clip String Lights // Mug + Socks

Keep Decorating Simple

I take a fairly minimalist approach to decorating generally, and I do the same around the holiday season. When we got our first home, I went a little crazy with multiple trees, garlands everywhere, etc. But, it honestly felt like clutter to me, plus I hated taking it down at the end of the year.

Now, I keep it simple because that’s what feels best to me. I added these clip string lights from Paper Source across our TV stand and hung up one of our holiday cards from previous years. I’ll put up our tree soon and decorate the mantel, then I’ll be done.

Rose Gold Candle

Set Your Holiday Schedule Early

Communicate early with family members about scheduling of holiday gatherings, like Thanksgiving and Christmas (or other winter holiday) celebrations. Some families have certain gatherings that are annual traditions, like spending every Christmas Eve at grandma’s house. Other families are more up in the air depending on travel and other obligations. Open the conversation early to get those events on your calendar.

Satin Sleep Set

Don’t feel bad about setting your own rules and boundaries. If you would prefer to spend the holidays at home instead of traveling, if you don’t have time to make an elaborate dish, or if you can’t fit a gift exchange in your budget this year–just be clear about what will work for you.

Mug + Socks // Rose Gold Candle

After scheduling your family gatherings, take a look at your calendar and fill in from there. Remember, you don’t have to do every activity every year. Leave space in your schedule for impromptu events and, of course, time for yourself.

Satin Sleep Set

Practice Your “Script” for Family Gatherings

We all have something we’re a bit self-conscious about, and we all have nosy family members who will inevitably ask you about that thing while the rest of the room is completely silent and everyone is staring at you. Or at least it feels that way.

For a long time, that “thing” for me was leaving the practice of law. I was in a dark place while practicing, but most people didn’t know that. So anyone who hadn’t seen me for awhile would inevitably be like, “Hey, how’s lawyer life?” then I would have to awkwardly explain that I wasn’t, in fact, a lawyer anymore.

“That thing” can be anything–maybe you’re out of a job, not dating anyone, not pregnant, whatever it is that other people *think* you should be doing with your life at this moment.

Having a “script” for these situations is incredibly helpful to me. For me, the script was basically, “I actually left my firm a few months ago and I’m much happier now! Life’s too short, you know? So what’s new with you these days?”

Keep it light–no need for details. Then change the subject. This is key. Don’t let them ask follow-up questions, immediately steer the conversation back to them. Depending on the event, you can also get out of a conversation by saying you’re going to catch up with someone you haven’t seen in awhile, going to refill your plate, need to make a phone call, or, if all else fails, just ask where the bathroom is.

Clip String Lights

Do Your Shopping Online

Avoid crowds, stick to your budget, and don’t forget anyone on your list by shopping online. I specifically chose items to feature in this post that would make great gifts, like this cute set and this under $25 gift idea.

Paper Source isn’t just paper–they have a lot of great items for gifting at all price points. And, they often have coupon codes on their website and free shipping offers that help you stay on budget.

And, for you last-minute shoppers, almost everything on their website is available in-store. So you can make your selections online then pop in-store to grab them that day! [Find the Paper Source closest to you here!]

Big Night In Kit

Have a Night In

The only thing better than a night out is a night in. The older I get, the more of a homebody I become. I love cuddling up in bed [our master bedroom is one of my favorite rooms in the house!] and just spending some time to myself. Especially after chasing 2 kids around all day!

Introverts recharge by spending time alone. The Big Night In Kit is full of perfect gifts for introverts in your family or friend circle–or yourself!

Clip String Lights // Mug + Socks

Satin Sleep Set

Get Enough Rest

Sleep is essential for self care during the holidays. Go to bed at a reasonable time and set down your phone at least 30 minutes before you go to sleep. Social media is fun [obviously I love it, it’s literally my job] but it can also be draining. Spend your last minutes before bed cuddled up with a loved one [or a good book!], not comparing yourself to people on the Internet.

A comfortable sleep environment is a must. This satin sleep set is a great gift because it’s not only cute, but functional. The sleep mask is especially great for people who sleep during the day or live in light-filled environments, like busy cities.

Clip String Lights // Mug + Socks