Your Holiday Overwhelm Survival Guide
Sometimes the holidays feel chaotic—like, “running around like a chicken with your head cut off” kind of chaotic. You’ve got a million tasks, half a plan, and zero time to breathe. Something’s got to give, but what? Will it be work, the kids, your health, or (gulp) your last shred of sanity?
Feeling like you're drowning in tasks is as universal as that ugly holiday sweater everyone pretends to love. But don’t panic—I’ve got your back with simple, no-nonsense strategies, a free worksheet, and an audio track to help you navigate this chaos with grace (or at least less panic).
1. Communication is Queen
If you’re drowning, don’t suffer in silence—ask for help! Whether it’s your partner, family, or friends, let them know how you are feeling and what you need.
Be specific about what would make a difference:
“Mom, can you take the kids overnight so I can catch up?”
“Babe, can you handle groceries this week?”
People want to help, but they can’t read your mind. Asking for what you need is hard, but so necessary—and it might just save your sanity.
2. Rethink Work-Life Balance
We hear it all the time: “Find balance!” But let’s be real—balance is a myth, especially during chaotic seasons. Instead, try reframing your situation.
Ask yourself:
Is this a temporary season of life?
Can I let go of the expectation that I need to do it all right now?
If chaos feels like your current normal, remember—it’s temporary. Lean on your loved ones, set realistic expectations, and take things one step at a time. Balance isn’t the goal; surviving (and maybe even thriving) is.
3. Brain Dump Your Chaos
When the to-do list in your head feels like a hundred ping pong balls, a brain dump is your best friend. Write down:
All your thoughts
Every task
Every worry
Get it all out on paper—it doesn’t have to be pretty. The goal is to clear mental space so you can focus. Bonus: I’ve created a free worksheet to guide you through this process (you’ll find it below!).
4. Categorize and Conquer (or Not)
Once you’ve dumped it all, it’s time to triage. Look at each task and decide:
Keep it: Must be done.
Eliminate it: It’s not worth your time.
Modify it: Find a shortcut.
Delegate it: Someone else can handle this.
For example, if you’re supposed to bring a dish to a party but life’s thrown you a curveball, ditch the elaborate recipe and buy something pre-made. Costco’s deli section is a lifesaver. Trust me—no one’s going to care, and your sanity is worth it.
5. Own Your Choices
Sometimes, chaos can be joyful—if it aligns with your values. If a task sparks joy (thanks, Marie Kondo!), choose to embrace it, even if it adds to the circus.
For example, I love cooking with my kids. Is it messy? Yes. Is it less efficient? Absolutely. But the memories we make are worth the chaos, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
When you own your choices, you turn overwhelm into intentional chaos. It’s no longer about what you have to do but what you choose to do.
The Lifeline You’ve Been Waiting For
I’ve created the Undo List Worksheet to help you effectively sort those endless tasks, so you can feel a whole lot lighter this holiday season. Plus, you’ll get my 2-Minute Guided Audio Track for those moments when you just need a break.
Totally free.
Download your free Undo List Worksheet and 2 Minute Guided Meditation Audio Track now—because everyone needs a break sometimes…even circus performers!