Written by Rhonda Coleman Wandel

I love the holiday season, but the madness of the end-of-year rush at work, combined with the overwhelming nature of long holiday to-do lists, can be very stressful. What should be a joyous time of year often ends up feeling exhausting. This year, however, I’m determined to enjoy the holidays to the fullest. The joy I derive from the holiday season helps me stay balanced, become a better contributor at work, and be more present for my family. For me, it’s very important to protect and maintain these sources of happiness.

Tip 1: Identify the Things You Don’t Want to Sacrifice This Holiday Season and Plan Ahead

Every year, my family cherishes certain holiday traditions. My daughters and I always attend The Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker. On Christmas Eve, our family goes to the service at Rockefeller Chapel on the University of Chicago’s campus, followed by dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. These family moments are non-negotiable for us. So I make sure that I get tickets and make reservations way ahead of time. This year we’ve added Lyric Opera’s performance of Blue to the activities. I’m really looking forward to that one!

Make a list of the experiences you don’t want to miss and prioritize them in your holiday plans. Get tickets and make reservations as early as possible. After a tough day or week at the office, attending your can’t-miss event—whether it’s a ballet, a play, a movie, or another cherished tradition—can uplift your spirit and remind you why this season is so special.

Tip 2: Prioritize What Brings You Joy

I adore holiday decorations and like to enjoy them for as long as possible. Last year, I didn’t get my decorations up until the second week of December, and January came around so quickly. I had just finished putting them up when it was already time to take them down.

This year, I started early. Yes, if you’re coming to my house for Thanksgiving dinner, you’re going to see a Christmas tree! It warms my heart sitting at the end of a long day and admiring the glow of my beautifully decorated tree. It’s a simple pleasure that brings me so much happiness, and I’m making it a priority this year.

Tip 3: Set Boundaries at Work

The end-of-year rush can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to let it take over your life. You’re in control. Identify what truly needs to get done and assess whether you have the bandwidth to handle it. If not, ask for help. Prioritize Q4 matters over tasks that can wait until the new year, and don’t feel guilty about pushing back. I promise, we’ll all still love you if you say no!

Additionally, plan your time off strategically to ensure a smooth holiday season at home. For example, I have 21 people coming to my house for Thanksgiving this year, including seven out-of-town guests staying with me. I know I’ll need at least the day before Thanksgiving to prepare, so I’ve planned to take that day off. This will help me avoid unnecessary stress and allow me to enjoy the holiday with family and friends.