What I Plan to Say Yes to This Holiday Season
Every holiday season, I watch people get swept into a storm of obligations, overspending, stress, and pressure to make everything “perfect.” And I’ve been guilty of falling into that trap myself. But this year, I’m changing my approach. Instead of letting the season run me, I’m deciding ahead of time what I’m saying no to and more importantly, what I’m saying yes to so I can actually enjoy this time of year.
I’m keeping my boundaries strong with five clear “no’s” that protect both my finances and my peace. First, I’m saying no to using debt during the holidays. Nothing kills the magic faster than seeing a credit card bill in January you can’t pay off. I’ve learned that holiday debt doesn’t create memories it creates stress, regret, and a financial hangover that can last months.
I’m also saying no to attending every event I’m invited to. I’m choosing rest over running myself into the ground. No more guilt-tripping myself into three parties in one weekend just because I “should” show up. This year, I’m showing up where I truly want to be.
I’m also saying no to buying expensive gifts for adults. Grown adults with jobs can fund their own lives—I don’t need to buy a $200 candle for Karen from work. A thoughtful gesture means more than gifting out of obligation.
I’m saying no to new outfits for every holiday event. No one remembers what I wore last year, and if they do, that’s their problem. I’m recycling what I have because I’d rather put my money toward things that actually matter.
And finally, I’m saying no to over-the-top elf traditions. I’m not setting alarms at 1 a.m. to stage a tiny diorama of a plastic elf “baking cookies.” I’m keeping it simple. Kids don’t need theatrics; they need presence, not perfection.
Now let’s talk about what I am saying yes to this holiday season because boundaries aren’t just about restrictions, they’re about creating space for joy.
I’m saying yes to lists and budgets. I’m planning my gifts, food, travel, and events before the chaos starts. This takes the mental load down significantly. Decision fatigue is real, and lists turn chaos into clarity.
I’m saying yes to matching pajamas for the kids. It’s one of those small traditions that feels magical and makes for photos everyone actually loves. Plus, it’s inexpensive and long-lasting in meaning.
I’m saying yes to seasonal coffees. Yes, I’m getting the peppermint mocha. Yes, I’m getting the gingerbread latte. These small indulgences bring happiness, and they don’t wreck my budget.
I’m saying yes to Christmas movie marathons. Blankets, snacks, pajamas, and zero expectations it’s free, cozy, and actually feels like the holidays.
I’m saying yes to potlucks. Hosting doesn’t need to bankrupt anyone. When everyone brings a dish, the cost and the work are shared and the food somehow tastes better because everyone’s involved.
Above all, I’m reminding myself of two things. First, I can enjoy the holidays without going overboard. I’m keeping boundaries around my time, my emotions, and my money so I can move into the new year without exhaustion or financial regret.
Second, every financial decision I make in November and December follows me into January. I don’t want holiday spending to sabotage my goals. I want this season to feel joyful not stressful, not expensive, not overwhelming.
So this year, I’m choosing intentionally. I’m saying no to what drains me and yes to what fills me up. That’s my holiday strategy, and honestly? I’m excited.
