Week 7: You Deserve a Peaceful Holiday
Hello and welcome back to the Cultivating a Minimalist Holiday 8-week online course where we create a joyful and peaceful holiday aligned with your values. This week we are diving into a topic that’s especially relevant at this very moment: the holiday magic makers. You know who you are—the women who dedicate themselves to making the season special for everyone around them. But here’s the question: how do we, as magic makers, make space to enjoy the magic ourselves?
This week we’ll talk about slowing down, setting boundaries, and shifting our perspective to experience the holidays not just as the creators of joy but as its recipients. I’ll share insights inspired by the Danish concept of hygge, practical tips to simplify your holiday prep, and ideas for prioritizing your own peace and happiness. Let’s get started.
If you’re listening to this, chances are you’re the magic maker in your family or circle of friends. You’re the one who plans the parties, wraps the gifts, bakes the cookies, and makes sure every detail is just right. Your days are filled with facilitating fun and excitement for your loved ones. And while this role can be incredibly fulfilling, it’s also a lot of pressure.
Too often, we focus so much on creating a magical experience for others that we forget to savor it ourselves. This isn’t just about self-care—it’s about recognizing that the holidays are for us, too. You deserve to feel the warmth, wonder, and joy of the season, just like everyone else.
So, how do we make that shift? How do we balance our role as magic makers with our need to experience the magic, too? The answer lies in being intentional—about what we do, how we do it, and why.
One way to bring more balance into the holidays is to take a page from the Danes and their concept of hygge. For those unfamiliar, hygge is all about creating cozy, joyful moments that foster connection and well-being. It’s about slowing down, savoring the present, and finding joy in the simple things—whether it’s lighting a candle, sharing a warm meal, or curling up with a good book.
So, how can we incorporate hygge into our holiday season? Start by asking yourself: What truly makes this time of year special for you? Is it the glow of string lights? The sound of your favorite carols? Quiet evenings by the fire? Whatever it is, make time for those moments. Let go of the tasks and traditions that don’t bring you joy and focus on creating an atmosphere of warmth and connection.
Hygge teaches us that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. In fact, some of the most magical moments are the simplest ones. So, as you plan your holiday, think less about perfection and more about presence.
Another powerful strategy for reclaiming your holiday joy is to set a firm deadline for your preparations. Treat this as your finish line for all the planning, shopping, and wrapping. After that, shift your focus to rest and enjoyment.
By giving yourself this deadline, you create a clear boundary between the hustle of preparation and the calm of celebration. It’s a way of saying, “I’ve done enough. Now it’s time to enjoy.”
So, as you approach this date, take stock of your to-do list. What are the final tasks you absolutely need to complete? What can you let go of? Remember, not everything has to get done. The goal is to enter the holiday with a sense of peace, not exhaustion.
One of the biggest challenges for magic makers is setting boundaries. We often feel obligated to meet everyone’s expectations—whether it’s hosting a big dinner, attending every event, or saying yes to every request. But the truth is, we can’t do it all. And more importantly, we don’t have to.
Setting boundaries starts with being honest about what’s realistic and what’s meaningful to you. It’s okay to say no to things that add stress without joy. For example, if a certain tradition or event feels more like an obligation than a celebration, consider skipping it this year. Instead, focus your energy on the activities and moments that truly matter.
It’s also helpful to communicate your boundaries with loved ones. Let them know what you can and can’t commit to, and be clear about your need for downtime. Most people will understand—and those who don’t might need a gentle reminder that your well-being matters, too.
Here’s a thought experiment: What would it look like to experience the holidays not just as the maker of magic but as its consumer? Imagine a season where you could relax, laugh, and be fully present. Where you could enjoy the lights, the music, and the small, quiet moments without a care in the world.
To make this vision a reality, start by prioritizing your own joy. Schedule time for activities that bring you peace and happiness, whether it’s watching a holiday movie, taking a leisurely walk, or simply sitting with a cup of tea. Delegate tasks to others where you can, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Remember, the holidays are meant to be a shared experience. By stepping back and allowing yourself to enjoy the magic, you not only recharge your spirit but also set an example for your loved ones. After all, the best gift you can give is your presence—fully engaged and at peace.
As we wrap up, I want to leave you with a few questions to reflect on:
What does it look like to fully enjoy the holidays without a care in the world?
What would you need to do—or not do—to make that happen?
How can you shift from being just a maker of magic to also being a recipient of it?
Take some time to journal or meditate on these questions. And as you move through the next few weeks, keep coming back to this idea: The holidays are for you, too.
Before we go, I want to share a few resources that can help you embrace a more intentional, minimalist holiday.
The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking is a wonderful guide to finding joy in the simple things.
Have Yourself a Minimalist Christmas by Meg Nordmann is packed with practical tips for simplifying the season.
Welcome Home by Myquillyn Smith is a cozy minimalist’s guide to decorating and hosting.
Thank you for joining me today. Next week is the last week of the course where we will reflect on what you’ve learned and how to carry those lessons into your whole year. For now I want you to remember - you deserve to experience the magic, too. Until next time, take care and happy holidays!
