5 Ways to Stop Self-Abandoning and Truly Enjoy the Holiday Season

5 Ways to Stop Self-Abandoning and Truly Enjoy the Holiday Season

The holidays are meant to feel joyful — yet for so many of us, they bring stress, overcommitment, and emotional exhaustion. We say “yes” when we mean “no,” push through when we’re depleted, and end up feeling disconnected from the very season we hoped to enjoy.

That’s called self-abandonment — when you ignore your own needs, emotions, or boundaries to meet others’ expectations. The good news? You can stop the cycle and bring yourself back home to you.

Here are five ways to stay grounded, kind, and connected to yourself this holiday season:

1. Check in before you say yes

Before agreeing to any invite, gift exchange, or favor, pause and ask: Do I actually want to do this? If your body tenses or your breath shortens, that’s information. Honor it. You don’t owe everyone your energy — you owe yourself honesty.

2. Redefine what “holiday success” means

Instead of trying to please everyone, define your own version of a meaningful season. Maybe it’s calm mornings with coffee, or fewer events but deeper connections. Let presence — not perfection — guide your choices.

3. Protect your nervous system

The holidays can flood your senses. Slow down with intentional breathwork, gentle movement, or time outside. A few minutes of grounding can shift you from fight-or-flight into a state of safety and calm.

4. Speak your needs out loud

You don’t have to carry it all in silence. Whether it’s asking for help, saying no, or naming how you feel, giving your truth a voice is an act of self-respect — and it deepens the authenticity of your relationships.

5. Choose small moments of joy

Joy doesn’t have to be big or performative. It’s in lighting a candle, taking a walk alone, or laughing with someone you love. Notice those moments. Let them refill you.

This season, make it a goal to stay connected to yourself.
When you stop abandoning your needs, you create space for genuine peace — and that’s the most meaningful gift of all.

If you’d like support during this season book a session here.