I began my morning with some exercise and quiet reflection, feeling relaxed and ready to embrace the day. However, that sense of calm quickly faded. As I ran a few errands, I felt the familiar tension creeping into my shoulders. Nothing unusual happened; merely the seasonal displays in the stores reminded me of all the tasks still on my to-do list. Perhaps you can relate—but I’m tired of merely “surviving” the holidays. The pace of our lives and the unrealistic expectations we place on ourselves often rob us of the joy this season should bring. I admit, I am guilty of this mindset! But the good news is that it is early December, and we still have time to get it right and keep some focus on what’s most important.
I get so caught up in my responsibilities that I forget to be fully present and savor each moment. As a perfectionist (or as I like to call myself, an “improver”), my list is never truly complete; as soon as I cross something off, I add more to it. Yet sometimes we need to remind ourselves that things can be “good enough,” and it doesn’t have to be perfect. And maybe we need to intentionally add things to our list that aren’t the “have to’s” but the things that truly bring us joy.
Don’t get me wrong—I love Christmas and the entire holiday season, largely thanks to cherished childhood memories. Being the only child and grandchild for the first seven years of my life meant I was spoiled with attention. But it also meant that the adults in my family had to engage in childlike play with me. From Legos to puzzles to Barbies, they joined me in my world. I vividly recall one year when my great-uncles took turns zooming around the house on my Big Wheel, racing through the living room and kitchen, and finally sliding into the dining room. Without the distractions of cell phones or social media, we had plenty of time for such silly antics, which created some of my happiest holiday memories.
This year, I’m excited to share our holiday celebration with the newest family member. At just 21 months old, Kinsley, my little cousin, is sure to add a delightful new dynamic to our festivities. Children her age are blissfully unaware of the expectations that often burden adults. They don’t anticipate specific gifts or dwell on the chaos of holiday preparations. Instead, they find delight in simple pleasures—twinkling lights, gift wrap, and boxes. The joy they experience in these ordinary things is infectious. I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing the day unfold through her eyes. Although it will be challenging for me to set aside my to-do list and accept “good enough,” I am determined to make a conscious effort.
I invite you all to join me in seeking joy in simplicity, to put away our devices, and to be truly present. Let’s strive to limit our to-do lists and recognize that most people won’t even notice what doesn’t get checked off. Keep things simple enough to enjoy. Perhaps we skip some decorations, stick to familiar recipes instead of trying new elaborate ones, or simplify our gifting (after all, wine makes a fantastic gift!). Let’s carve out time for a drive to see Christmas lights or enjoy takeout with friends. Maybe we can find little ones in our lives who inspire us with their unfiltered joy. Whatever it is, let’s not miss out on the delights of the season!
Cheers to the pure joy we can discover in the simple moments this time of year!
