Christmas is typically a special time for everyone, but for some people, it becomes an exhausting time instead!
With all the stress of expectations, pressure, tradition, etc., many people have lost the joy of being with family and friends on Christmas Eve.
The errors that we make are what cause this stressful feeling, not the actual day itself. If we could avoid these errors, then Christmas Eve would be much more enjoyable.
1. Trying to Make Everything Perfect
Christmas Eve is typically a time when people reach for perfection in meals and decorations and try to have the best possible mood, but this puts pressure on individuals to create that experience for themselves and each person who participates in it.
The buildup of pressure creates tension and disappointment when something doesn’t go according to plan. The pursuit of perfection takes away from the joy of Christmas.
The true meaning of Christmas does not depend on having everything in order; by lowering the unachievable expectations for perfection, we allow ourselves time to laugh and connect with friends and family and make the best memories.
2. Overloading the Schedule
Most people are overwhelmed by trying to do too many things in one night: visiting multiple places, making many meals, or rushing through family traditions.
These acts will leave us drained of energy by the end of Christmas Eve, making it feel like simply a task list and not a time to celebrate. By slowing down, we can find those “moments to breathe.”
The more plans you make, the more stressed you feel; it is best to slow down and focus on things that really matter. Evenings that are simple are often richer than those that are busy. Rest is also essential.
3. Arguing Over Old Issues
Family gatherings can bring up past emotional trauma, and you can’t settle that in one family gathering, especially on Christmas Eve.
Emotional triggers are easy to get caught up in and will escalate into arguments, which destroys the holiday atmosphere and causes arguments to be remembered longer than the holiday itself.
By choosing to be at peace, rather than being right, you protect the evening. Setting appropriate boundaries is showing care for others. There are some conversations that could be held at another time.
4. Spending Too Much Time on Phones
The use of phones can detract from meaningful experiences. Phones take the attention off the people around you, whether that is texting, looking at pictures, or just scrolling down your news feed.
When you are distracted by your phone, Christmas Eve seems to go by too quickly. By putting your phone down, you are able to connect with others more deeply.
Being present is far more valuable than the documentation of your experiences. You are experiencing this moment, and the memories are real, not just a collection of pictures on a phone.
5. Forgetting to Rest and Eat Properly
Hunger and fatigue lead to high-stress levels and an irritable mood. By meeting these two basic needs, you can immediately improve your mood.
Even taking breaks will help increase your level of patience and kindness toward people with whom you are dealing.
Additionally, having a calm physical state will create a more relaxed state of mind, thus eliminating unnecessary tension.
6. Ignoring Your Own Emotional Limits
People often push themselves emotionally on Christmas Eve to please others at the expense of their own feelings, resulting in quiet burnout.
Being aware of your limits and respecting them is an important part of taking care of yourself. It’s okay to say no.
Peace is more important than appearance. When you take care of yourself, you feel lighter and more loving that night.
7. What It Should Be About
Many people remember Christmas Eve by how they felt. When people focus on being present with one another on Christmas Eve, it creates a special feeling, a warm feeling that is more significant than anything else associated with this holiday.
Many times, Christmas Eve is all about enjoying small moments together, whether it’s laughter, having a quiet conversation, or simply sharing a family tradition or activity.
When people let go of the pressure of Christmas Eve, they can make space in their lives for connection and peace. Creating room for kindness, rest, and genuine togetherness on Christmas Eve is more important than creating an idealistic image in albums or on social media.
Born and raised in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ever since I was a little girl, my imagination knew no bounds. I remember vividly how I’d scribble down short stories, each page bursting with adventures and characters conjured up from the whimsy of my mind. These stories weren’t just for me; they were my way of connecting with my friends, offering them a slice of my fantasy world during our playtimes. The joy and excitement on their faces as we dived into my fictional realms motivated me to keep writing. This early passion for storytelling naturally evolved into my pursuit of writing, turning a childhood hobby into a fulfilling career.