With the holidays here, many people are bracing for more than just shopping and travel. Holiday burnout can hit hard, especially for hosts and caregivers who do most of the work to make the season feel “magical.”
In an interview, Dr. Christine Korol said the first step is focusing on values, not perfection. She encourages people to ask what matters most?
Korol said the pandemic helped many people rethink traditions, finding new ways to share meaningful moments even when they could not gather in person.
She suggested cutting corners when needed. That could mean making fewer traditional dishes, choosing easier side dishes, or even hiring a caterer one year so the focus stays on games, laughter, and time together.
Korol also recommends building in “micro breaks” to reset the nervous system. A break can be as small as a 20-second breathing pause, or stepping outside for a short walk near trees or water.
Setting limits around gatherings is another key. Korol said families often have different expectations, and not everyone will be happy with boundaries. She advises letting go of people-pleasing, staying clear about your needs, and avoiding plans that lead to resentment.
Finally, Korol suggests planning something enjoyable for January. She noted mood often dips after the holidays, and having a “guilty pleasure” activity to look forward to can help.
Korol said holidays cannot undo a year of pressure, but they can be the start of recovery when approached intentionally.