5 Ways to Make Space for Wonder This Holiday Season

I crammed my winter clothes into the carry-on suitcase, pressing with all my might to create space for the adventure ahead. Pursuing the concept of “less is more” is much easier said than done, especially during the holiday season when it’s natural to pursue a “more the merrier” mentality. After all, there are so many good things; how can we say no? Yet, if we aren’t careful, we will cram the merry and bright into the following days at risk of losing the wonder of it altogether. Allow these tips to help you pursue a minimal yet full Christmas, making space for wonder through it all.

1. Find Your Focus

As with anything, if we do not plan how we intend to go, we may miss it altogether. So, each holiday season, I find it helpful to ask our family about one thing they are looking forward to this season. If I don’t seek their input, chances are I will scurry around to find meaningful memories in the areas that don’t translate to wonder. Therefore, the person they are left with is the weary mom, not the peaceful mom.

It’s equally helpful to take inventory of my own heart. What is my capacity this Christmas, and how can I keep the holidays festive without completely wearing myself out? As we desire to make space for wonder, focus on three ways you want to chase it this month. To help, ask yourself—at the end of the month, what is one thing that would help you feel like it was a special season? Then, allow your yes’s and no’s on your calendar to reflect that intention and proceed ahead with confidence.

2. Simplify Your Serving

Hospitality continues to be a significant part of the holidays, but if we aren’t careful, our commitments can drown our energy quicker than a cup of hot chocolate on a snowy day. Whether it’s simplifying what you serve at gatherings or rethinking what you wear, this will help you find joy in the moment.

If there is one thing I am notorious for, it’s hosting people in our home and creating chaos for my family while preparing for their arrival. From cleaning the bathrooms to creating a sufficient spread with proper attire, I tend to snuff out the joy before friends and family arrive. This year, extend the invitation and remember that our guests’ expectations are always less than our own. So, join me in asking how to serve others while keeping it simple, from food to décor.

To read the remainder of the article, CLICK HERE.