The pre‑Christmas period is one of the fastest, most hectic times of the year. Christmas is approaching, the year is ending, and we often try to catch up on everything we didn’t manage in previous months. Cities buzz with activity, while nature sleeps. How do we step out of the chaos?
TIP 1: Pause
Even if only for a moment. You may think: “Míša, don’t be crazy — how am I supposed to pause? School events, cookies, gifts, cleaning, year‑end deadlines — and you’re telling me to stop?” The more overwhelmed we are, the more impossible stopping feels. But in a multitasking whirlwind, we can’t distinguish what truly matters from what doesn’t. When we’re stressed, everything feels urgent — even though it’s not. So take a breath, close your eyes for a moment, and ask yourself: “What is most important for me right now?”
TIP 2: Set priorities and plan
Grab a pen and paper and write down your priorities for the coming days. When you pause and give yourself time to plan, you step out of the chaos. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Look at your calendar, decide what is realistic on each day, and make a simple schedule. Review and adjust it as needed. You’ll step out of confusion and panic.
TIP 3: Choose your main Christmas priority
Think about what matters most to you. We women often try to create the perfect Christmas for everyone and forget ourselves. But you can’t have everything perfect — and if it comes at the cost of exhaustion and self‑neglect, it’s not worth it. My priority every Christmas is to stay calm and not lose my mind. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Trust that your children and family will appreciate any effort.
If your home feels warm and peaceful, everyone will appreciate that far more than a stressed‑out woman in a perfectly decorated home with 30 types of cookies. Who defined the ideal you’re chasing? Is it even yours?
Of course, if you love creating Christmas atmosphere and baking cookies, that’s wonderful — it’s all about the energy and intention behind it.
TIP 4: Learn to say no
And once again — learn to say no. Invitations to events and parties multiply. Maybe a new project comes your way. If you’re tired and not feeling up to it, don’t push yourself — rest instead. The same goes for drinking alcohol when you don’t feel like it, or eating more when you’re full. Gifts, obligations — learn to say no. You’ll put yourself and your rest first. Be honest and don’t give excuses. You have the right to decline.
TIP 5: Forget perfection
Perfection lies in imperfection. Many people chase an ideal at Christmas that only stresses them out. Make it perfect for yourself — in a way that feels good and doesn’t overwhelm you. Take things lightly and turn mishaps into moments to laugh about. Because the more we cling to perfection, the more the opposite happens — a fallen tree, burnt fish, messy kids before dinner… you know how it goes 🙂
TIP 6: Set a goal to declutter your home next year
If your home feels chaotic and stresses you out even more before Christmas, remember — it can be different. A home with fewer things and a good system supports you, and Christmas preparation becomes far less stressful. Let this motivate you to declutter next year.
If you want to declutter on your own or gift someone inspiration, you can choose one of my online courses, guiding you through the entire process — from ritual, letting go, sorting, organizing, to maintaining habits and mindful shopping.
TIP 7: Connect with family, loved ones, and friends
Remember the pleasant moments you shared. Make a small recap of what went well this year. And start tuning into what beautiful things await you next year.
The end of the year should be calm, guiding us inward. So we can breathe out and gather strength for what’s ahead. Enjoy it in a way that fits your lifestyle and priorities.
Wishing you a beautiful, heartfelt pre‑Christmas season.
Míša
