Hi friends, Alecia St. Germain here, joined by my amazing co-host Jonathan Dugger. As the holiday season sweeps in with its dazzling lights and endless to-do lists, we wanted to share some heartfelt insights on navigating the season without losing yourself in the overwhelm.
One of the most powerful shifts we can make is being intentional about how we label our experiences. As Jonathan points out, we often misuse words like “overwhelmed” when what we’re really feeling is stressed, inconvenienced, or even just busy.
Recognizing this difference can help us stay grounded and avoid spiraling into emotional overload. We can set ourselves up to exaggerate our circumstances when we use charged language.
The holidays can trigger a range of complex emotions. It can bring joy, nostalgia, grief, and even guilt. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings without judgment. For many of us, it brings feelings of dissonance or disconnection from how we think we should feel.
We can set ourselves up for failure if we don’t own how we’re feeling in a positive way. Jonathan shares how losing his dad changed his family’s holiday traditions and how embracing new ways of celebrating has helped ease that sense of loss.
Sometimes, holiday traditions can feel more like obligations than sources of joy. There’s often over-compensation to buy gifts, host parties, send out cards and more to make up for lost time or a lack of connection throughout the year.
Jonathan and I discussed how reevaluating and simplifying holiday customs can make space for genuine connection. My family decided to spread celebrations over several weekends, giving us time to relax and truly enjoy each gathering. It’s okay to focus on what really matters today. What is an important part of your tradition that you can do in a new way?
The ability to slow down and find what works for you and your family. Your holidays don’t have to conform to someone else’s idea or to an outdated tradition that isn’t attainable anymore.
Jonathan shared a story about a friend who found comfort simply by visiting an ice-skating rink, soaking up the joy of strangers. Sometimes, when joy feels distant, borrowing it from the world around us can be a beautiful act of self-care.
The holidays don’t have to be picture-perfect. They can be imperfectly beautiful, filled with intentional moments of connection, gratitude, and even quiet reflection. Let’s rewrite the narrative this season—letting go of outdated expectations and embracing what truly matters.
We’d love to hear what resonated with you. Connect with me on Instagram and share your takeaways.
Sending you so much love and be well!
Resources:
Episode 3: What to do When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
