We’ve all seen the commercials: perfect families gathered around a glowing hearth, laughing over a flawless turkey while snow falls gently outside. It’s a beautiful image, but for a lot of us, the reality of the holidays looks a bit different. It’s often a mix of hectic schedules, financial stress, missing loved ones, or just a general sense of “seasonal funk.”

If you’re feeling more “blah” than “bright” this year, you might be experiencing the Holiday Blues. The good news? It’s temporary, it’s common, and there are some really effective ways to pivot toward a better headspace.

Ditch the “Perfect” Expectation

Social media is the ultimate thief of joy during December. We see curated feeds of pristine decorations and think, “Why isn’t my life that sparkly?”

The Fix: Give yourself permission to have an “average” holiday. You don’t need the Pinterest-worthy tree or the most expensive gifts to have a meaningful season. Focus on connection over perfection. If ordering pizza instead of cooking a five-course meal lowers your stress, do it.

Set Realistic Boundaries

One of the biggest triggers for holiday stress is saying “yes” when your soul is screaming “no.” Overextending your schedule or your budget is a fast track to burnout.

Financial Boundaries: Decide on a spending limit and stick to it. Your friends care about you, not the price tag on a box.

Social Boundaries: You don’t have to attend every party. It is perfectly okay to stay in, put on your softest pajamas, and watch a movie.

Keep Moving (Even When It’s Cold)

When it’s grey outside, our instinct is to hibernate. However, physical activity is one of the most powerful “blues” busters available. Exercise releases endorphins that naturally improve your mood.

Even a 15-minute walk in the daylight can help regulate your circadian rhythm and combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If it’s too cold, try a quick yoga flow or a dance session in your living room.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

The holidays can be particularly tough if you’ve recently lost a loved one or are far from home. Trying to “force” cheerfulness often backfires and makes you feel more isolated.

It’s okay not to be okay. If you’re feeling sad, allow yourself the space to feel it. Journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or even just acknowledging your grief can take the weight off your chest. You don’t have to be “on” 24/7.

Create New Traditions

Sometimes the old traditions remind us too much of what has changed. If the old ways of celebrating feel heavy, start something new.

Volunteer at a local shelter.

Host a “misfit toys” potluck for friends who aren’t traveling.

Take a solo trip or a day hike.

By taking control and creating your own version of the holidays, you reclaim the power to enjoy them on your own terms.

Final Thoughts

The holiday season is just a chapter, not the whole book. If you’re struggling, be kind to yourself. Take it one day—or even one hour—at a time. You’ve got this!

Note: If your “blues” feel heavy, persistent, or interfere with your daily life, please reach out to a mental health professional. There is no shame in asking for a little extra support.