Harmony for the Holidays

The holiday season is here and with it comes parties, stress, end-of-year planning, buying presents, BEING present, and making this a magical time for your family and friends.

Typically during this season, the concept of balance often comes to mind, especially for parents juggling it all, but this year, I am being more deliberate in shifting my focus from balance to harmony. Why? Because, as I’ve said before , balance implies sacrificing one aspect for another, whereas harmony allows us to integrate all responsibilities into our lives.?

Think about it: the holidays can be chaotic—if we don’t find harmony, we risk losing ourselves in this whirlwind. Through my practice of harmony, I’ve learned that maintaining a flexible structure is key. By setting two or three non-negotiable goals each day, like a morning walk or prioritizing protein in meals, I can navigate this busy time while still feeling grounded in my routine. I remember talking with my husband, Matt, about our holiday plans and we both agreed that sticking to part of our routines sets the right tone for the day—even in the midst of the busiest time of year.?

I also like to set myself up for success when it comes to holiday travel. I plan meticulously and pack up to a week in advance for my boys.? Another great tip for overwhelmed parents is to coordinate your outfits for your family to streamline the packing process for everyone—this does not necessarily mean matching pajamas, but it certainly can help accelerate decision making and coordination.?

This philosophy also translates into gifts for my boys. Each year I pick out a theme—this year it’s football! (Last year was superheroes, then hockey the year before that). Then I pick out gifts in the categories of something they: want, need, wear, and read. Not only does this help me stay organized when it comes to gift buying, but it really is enough—the Christmas and holiday season is about more than just material possessions, and I want my boys to understand that.?

No matter the time of year, as a working mom, communication and planning are crucial. Just like I pack in advance, I also coordinate with my support system, including family, friends, and our nanny, to make sure no one is surprised when our routine changes or we have added stressors. I know planning this far in advance might seem extreme, but it allows my husband and me to act on spontaneous fun, like enjoying holiday treats or last-minute festivities.

Even with all the planning in the world, the holidays can still be an emotional rollercoaster, which leads me to this advice: remember to practice gratitude. When you are grateful, your mind actually becomes more flexible and able to adapt. A steady practice of gratefulness helps free up your mind by getting clear on what you’re grateful for, giving you the opportunity to build upon it.?

To put this advice into practice for myself, I look for moments of rest, like spending time on the porch by the fire or enjoying our Christmas tree, to give myself time to reflect. When you take the time to itemize out how much goodness and gratefulness you have, it is so fulfilling and really helps you regain clarity on your goals, achievements, and what matters most to you and your family. Gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it’s a practice that supports our harmony amidst the chaos—especially during the holidays.?

As working parents, we have the unique challenge of juggling professional and personal responsibilities. But by focusing on harmony, practicing gratitude, and planning with intention, we can make this holiday season one of the most fulfilling yet, for ourselves and our families.?

Let’s embrace the opportunity and find our own rhythm in the holiday harmony!