Slow Down and Celebrate: 3 Ways to Enjoy the Christmas Season More

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year is a classic song by Andy Williams that many sing every year, and it talks about the various fun festivities of the Christmas season. While I do enjoy this festive season, extended time to spend with loved ones, and celebrating Christ’s birth, I must admit that this time of year can be overwhelming too. My December calendar is filled with multiple ministry events, church services, holiday parties, gift exchanges, and school activities for my children. Whew! I’m tired just thinking about it. LOL.

Sound familiar? During this time of the year, are you feeling overwhelmed with all that “needs” to get done?

God doesn’t want us to simply endure Christmas but enjoy the wonder of Christ’s birth and this sacred season.

Here are three ways to help you avoid burnout and enjoy the Christmas season more:

1. Scale Down Your Schedule

I know, right? You’re probably thinking, this isn’t possible. If you are like me, you probably don’t want to miss out on anything and don’t have it in you to decline an invitation. Newsflash: You can’t be everywhere, and some events/festivities you will have to let go. Scaling down your schedule will help to minimize stress and give you the energy you need to be more fully present for the events and meaningful memories with those who are closest to you. For the things you do say yes to, you will not feel as rushed and your spirit can be more settled because you are more focused. Today, I invite you to scale down your schedule to make room for meaningful memories, decreased anxiety, and a greater enjoyment of the Christmas season.

2. Ask for Help

During this busy season, I invite you to ask for help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but an act of wisdom. God has placed different people in your life to support you. If you are hosting family dinner, have a potluck style and ask your guests to each bring a dish to help you lighten the load. When putting up the Christmas tree or decorations, make it a family affair, or ask a friend to stop by and help. Asking for help not only lightens your load, but it helps you to strengthen important relationships and form community. ASK FOR HELP. You’ll be so glad you did!

3. Leave Perfectionism at the Door

In order to enjoy the Christmas season more, I encourage you to leave perfectionism at the door. If you don’t have the grandest Christmas light display, Christmas tree, or didn’t have time to send out Christmas cards, it is ok and give yourself permission to relax.

While we want to accomplish all the things, we often lose sight of what is most important: the gift of Christ’s birth, giving to those who are in need, and spending quality time with those who matter most.

God’s grace is sufficient and allow His grace to cover you and help you enjoy the greatest gifts of the Christmas season today.

Praying your Christmas season will be filled with less stress, lasting memories, and renewed gratefulness for the gift of Christ’s birth and this sacred season!

Reflection Question: How will you be intentional about enjoying this Christmas season more? Please leave in the comments.