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Hey there Reader,

I used to white-knuckle my way through the holidays, saying yes to everything, running on fumes, and wondering why I couldn't remember any of it. Not anymore. Here are six things that shifted everything for me.

Here are 6 things I swear by to enjoy my holiday season:

1. Find gratitude before the day finds you. I set the tone before the day starts. Even one quiet breath before the house wakes up becomes my anchor, so I’m responding, not reacting, when things get loud.
2. Outsmart holiday decision fatigue before it hits. We map out meals, holiday visits, and teacher gifts early (so I’m not panic-purchasing Amazon Prime at 10 pm). The more we pre-decide, the more capacity I have for the moments that matter.
3. Audit last year’s chaos. A short journaling session gives me clues: What drained me last year? What filled my cup? This one practice helps me say yes and no with so much more clarity.
4. Set your non-negotiables and your no’s. Boundaries aren’t Grinchy, they’re generous. I skip self-addressing the Christmas cards. I do slow mornings, twinkle lights, and being present with my people. Pick your three yeses and protect them with your no’s.
5. Bake in mindful moments. When things spiral, I step outside and say, “I’m allowed to pause.” Just two minutes breaks the circuit of overwhelm. (I’ve made a few quick meditations for you on Instagram, go save your favorites now.)
6. Don’t forget your people. Busyness makes us forget we’re not alone. I text two girlfriends and say, “Can we get something on the books?” Even a 30-minute FaceTime helps me feel like me again, not just the holiday logistics manager.

Ta-da.

You don’t have to do all of this. Pick one tiny thing and try it this week. Little moves add up, even when it doesn’t feel like they are.

Try ONE thing … and let me know how it goes. I'll be here, likely sipping on a peppermint mocha.

Cheering you on this season!

Kourtney

PS - pass this along to a friend if you feel like they could benefit!