How do I protect my peace during the holidays?
- Sherri M. Herman
- 19 hours ago
- 3 min read
You protect your peace during the holidays by planning ahead, setting clear boundaries, and giving yourself permission to slow down.
Why does the holiday season feel so stressful?
The holidays bring extra layers of pressure, family expectations, social gatherings, financial strain, and packed schedules. Even when it’s meant to be joyful, the combination of busyness and emotion can leave you feeling drained instead of fulfilled.
Feeling overwhelmed isn't your fault. There are many environmental factors and subconscious factors at play here. But you can take overwhelm as a signal from your inner self that your system needs more care and less chaos.
What does it mean to protect my peace?
Protecting your peace means being intentional about how you use your time, energy, and attention. It’s not about avoiding people or shutting out joy, it’s about making choices that support emotional wellness. When you protect your peace, you’re saying yes to balance instead of burnout.
How can I set healthy boundaries during the holidays?
Boundaries can feel tricky when you don’t want to disappoint anyone, but they’re essential for peace. Try these practical steps:
Decide what matters most. Before the season begins, choose your top priorities, what events or traditions truly bring you joy or meaning.
Say no clearly and kindly. Example: “I love you and appreciate the invite, but we’re keeping things simple this year.” No guilt required.
Limit time with stressful dynamics. You can love people and still need space from them. Shorter visits, separate travel plans, or built-in breaks are all valid.
Set spending limits. Financial peace is emotional peace. Remember, presence matters more than presents.
Healthy boundaries create space for connection that feels genuine instead of forced.
How do I manage my energy when everyone wants something from me?
Energy management starts with awareness. Ask yourself throughout the week: What fills me up? What drains me? Protect your peace by balancing both.
Try these habits:
Build in quiet time. Ten minutes of solitude (without your phone) or a short walk can reset your nervous system.
Rest before you crash. Don’t wait until you’re exhausted, schedule rest like you schedule events.
Keep routines that ground you. Morning rituals, exercise, or prayer time can help you stay anchored.
Simplify where possible. Choose fewer activities and be fully present for them instead of scattered across too many.
How can I avoid taking on everyone else’s emotions?
Holiday gatherings can stir up old family dynamics or emotional tension. Protecting your peace means remembering what’s yours and what’s not.
Visualize emotional boundaries. Imagine a bubble or shield around you, reminding you that you don’t have to absorb anyone else’s stress.
Stay grounded in your body. Notice your breath, unclench your jaw, feel your feet on the floor, these small cues help you stay centered.
Detach from fixing. You can listen without taking responsibility for how others feel. Like Mel Robbins says, "Let them."
What if I feel guilty for saying no or taking time for myself?
Guilt often shows up when you start choosing differently. It doesn’t mean you’re selfish, it’s a sign that you’re breaking an old pattern of overgiving. When guilt comes up, gently remind yourself: I’m allowed to take care of myself. Peace is not selfish, it’s necessary.
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Over time, as you practice, the guilt fades and peace becomes your new normal.
How can I prepare now to prevent holiday burnout?
Prevention is your best strategy for emotional wellness during the holidays. Try planning ahead in three key areas:
Calendar: Block time for rest and self-care first, then add commitments around it.
Budget: Decide what you can afford early on to reduce stress later.
Mindset: Expect some imperfection. When things go sideways, pause, breathe, and ask, What matters most right now?
Final thought
Protecting your peace during the holidays isn’t about control, it’s about intention. When you slow down, set boundaries, and care for your inner world, you create space for the kind of connection and joy you actually crave. Peace is something you build, one small decision at a time.
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