My Simple Christmas Plan

A worksheet for a calmer, kinder December.

This season doesn’t have to look the way it used to. It only needs to feel manageable for the person you are today. Use this simple plan to help you release what’s too much and hold on to what brings peace.

1. What I Can Keep This December

Write down the traditions, moments, or practices that bring comfort, connection, or quiet joy.

Examples: tiny trees, lights, a calm morning, prayer, watching a Christmas movie, visiting one meaningful place.

Decide which ones feel comfortable for you to do this year.

2. What I Am Choosing to Let Go Of?

Write down the things that feel overwhelming, emotionally draining, or too complicated to manage this year.

Examples: hosting, big meals, large gatherings, gift overload, perfect decorations, attending every event.

Cross off as many as you can.

3. One New Tradition I’m Willing to Try

Write down some small, gentle, and doable new things to try.

Examples: a lights drive, Christmas Eve charcuterie, filling your own stockings, writing a letter to your beloved, a tiny tree, pajamas + cocoa night.

Decide which one(s) you can do that will bring your joy.

4. A Permission Slip for Myself

Choose one or write your own.

Examples:

•I am allowed to make Christmas simple.

• I don’t have to do anything out of guilt.

• I can leave early.

• I can say no.

• I can choose what brings peace.

• I am not behind, I’m grieving.

• I can ask for help.

Use one or a few above or write your own permission slip.

5. One Thing I Need From Others

This can be support, grace, space, help with errands, or understanding your limits.

Write what you need: