Managing Holiday Stress During Midlife: Putting Yourself First This Christmas

As the festive season approaches (don’t shout at me, it’s November so I can mention the C word), many of us find ourselves juggling family commitments, social gatherings, and endless to-do lists—all while managing the hormonal ups and downs of menopause. It’s no wonder the lead-up to Christmas can feel overwhelming. If you’ve ever found yourself feeling stressed, anxious, or even dreading the holidays, you’re not alone.

But this year, what if things could be different?

The Impact of Menopause on Holiday Stress
The hormonal changes of menopause can intensify feelings of anxiety and stress, which are often heightened during the festive season. Add the usual holiday pressures—family gatherings, gift shopping, and trying to please everyone—and it’s easy to see how overwhelmed sets in. You might feel stretched too thin, exhausted, or even more irritable than usual.

The good news is that this cycle doesn’t have to continue. By taking a step back, setting clear boundaries, and focusing on your own wellbeing, you can regain control and enjoy the holiday season without burning out.

Recognizing the Signs of Holiday Overwhelm
It’s important to be aware of the signs that you’re approaching holiday overload. Here are some common indicators to watch out for:

• Irritability or mood swings
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feeling overwhelmed by small tasks
• Increased anxiety or worry about family gatherings
• Exhaustion, both physical and emotional

If any of these resonate with you, it’s time to start thinking about ways to protect your energy and mental health over the holidays.

Setting Boundaries: Why It’s a Game-Changer
The key to avoiding burnout during the festive season is learning how to set clear, firm boundaries. And guess what? Setting boundaries doesn’t have to upset anyone—in fact, it can benefit everyone involved. When you communicate your needs openly and respectfully, you create space for healthier, more positive interactions with family and friends.

Here’s how setting boundaries could help YOU:

• Reduces stress: By deciding what you can realistically take on, you can avoid stretching yourself too thin.
• Increases energy: When you’re not saying “yes” to everything, you can conserve energy for the things that truly matter to you.
• Fosters respect: Clear communication of your needs helps others understand and respect your limits.

Practical Tips for Setting Boundaries This Christmas

1. Be honest about what you can handle
   Before committing to any plans, ask yourself whether you genuinely have the time and energy for them. If not, it’s okay to politely decline or suggest an alternative.
2. Schedule downtime for yourself
   Block out moments in your calendar just for you—whether it’s for rest, a walk, or a bit of quiet time with a book. This is crucial for recharging and maintaining balance.
3. Delegate where you can
   You don’t have to do everything. Whether it’s asking family members to help with meals or splitting up tasks, don’t be afraid to delegate.
4. Communicate clearly
   Let your family and friends know early on what you can and cannot do. Be clear but kind about your boundaries and explain that looking after yourself will allow you to enjoy the holidays more fully with them.

While these tips are a great start, sometimes knowing where to begin or how to stick to these boundaries can feel challenging. This is where a one-on-one coaching session can make all the difference.

A single coaching session with me can help you:

• Get clarity on what you want not only from the holiday season but also the lead up to it and what’s causing you the most stress.
• Create a plan to set and communicate boundaries that work for you and your family.
• Develop strategies to manage feelings of guilt or anxiety about putting yourself first.
• Stay accountable to your wellbeing goals, so you don’t fall back into old habits of over-committing or people-pleasing which may result in either burnout or arguments

We’ll work together to figure out where you can set realistic expectations for yourself, identify your triggers for stress or overwhelm, and make sure you have a concrete plan in place to protect your mental and physical health this Christmas.

Remember, Putting Yourself First Benefits Everyone
Remember, prioritising your wellbeing isn’t selfish—it’s essential. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be in a better place to enjoy the festive season and be present with your loved ones. And by setting boundaries that work for you, you’ll create a more peaceful, balanced environment for everyone.

If this sounds like the kind of support you need to tackle the holiday season with confidence, why not book a one-off coaching session with me?

Together, we can make sure this Christmas is not only manageable but enjoyable because you deserve a holiday season that works for you.