Get More Joy From the Holidays

Creating traditions and memories that truly matter

If we're to believe social media and televised feel-good movies, the holidays are a constant carousel of never-ending delight and celebration. So why do we often feel like 'tis the season for stress?

Fortunately, you don't have to end the year feeling overwhelmed. These tips shine a light on how to prioritize joy during a traditionally hectic time.

1. Reflect on What Brings You Joy

Before you start saying yes to every invitation and end up with an overflowing calendar, hit pause. Streamlining your schedule isn't about doing less; it's about making room for the joy you crave.

Think back to past holidays: Which moments mattered most? Which traditions, activities or people helped you feel genuinely connected? Jot them down. That list can become your compass, guiding where you spend your time, money and energy—so the season reflects what you value rather than what keeps you busy.

2. Simplify Your Commitments

Now it's time to put that list into action. This year, take the opportunity to preserve your own sanity—and savings—by cutting back where it makes sense. Consider proposing a gift exchange instead of buying gifts for your entire extended family, or a potluck instead of a lavish feast.

And feel free to decline or modify gatherings that feel like obligations. Skip the stuffy neighborhood open house or swap the pricey holiday play with your cousins for a January coffee date when you have time to catch up more authentically.

When you view your schedule more purposefully, you may find that your calendar and budget more accurately reflect your values rather than those of others, leaving you with a sense of contentment.

3. Embrace Gratitude and Mindfulness

Amid the rush of the season, let gratitude be your anchor. Pausing to notice what you already have can shift your perspective from stress to appreciation. Try writing down a few things you're thankful for each morning or sharing them out loud around the dinner table.

Use morning affirmations to start a hectic day on the right note. Ground yourself with a mantra like “I am thankful for the opportunities today will bring" or “I am grateful for the love and support I have in my life."

Pair gratitude with mindfulness through small pauses that help you stay in the present. Savor the taste of a favorite holiday dish, notice the sparkle of lights on a quiet evening walk or let a cherished holiday carol stir up treasured memories. These simple acts of awareness allow you to stay present and create calm pockets in the hustle and bustle of the season.

READ MORE: Get More Peace of Mind

4. Create Intentional Traditions

Some holiday rituals stick around long past their expiration date. Maybe you can't remember when they started, but they've slowly taken over. Reset by asking friends and family which events might have worn out their welcome—perhaps the elaborate cookie swap or the pricey holiday tea. Permit yourself to let go of what no longer serves you and make space for what does.

If you've been relying on too many complicated must-dos, begin fresh with lower-pressure activities. Meaningful traditions are often the simplest: reading a holiday story around the tree, volunteering as a family or hosting a cozy movie night. Or perform some random acts of kindness that bring joy to you and others. Pay for the person behind you in the drive-through, leave a surprise gift or note for the delivery person or shovel your neighbor's sidewalk.

You can apply the same “less is more" mindset to gifts, whether that means starting early to make or select thoughtful presents or scaling back altogether. With a little reimagining, you can create traditions you look forward to instead of ones you feel obligated to maintain.

READ MORE: 5 Affordable Holiday Party Ideas You Can Host Effortlessly

5. Connect Authentically With Others

Amid the holiday hustle, it's easy to mistake busyness for connection. But real bonds come from slowing down and being present. That becomes easier when you've already chosen fewer, more intentional activities. Shared experiences—like a game night or lingering over dessert—create space for meaningful conversations and lasting memories.

If your savings and simplification plan mean less holiday travel, you can still nurture relationships from afar. In the era of video calls, you can share a meal, open gifts or even watch a classic holiday film together. What matters most isn't how often you gather, but how fully you show up when you do.

6. Take Care of Your Well-Being

Even with the best intentions to simplify, the holidays have a way of draining your energy. Think of self-care as a gift you give yourself. After all, it's tough to feel joy if you're exhausted, which can happen when you forgo your regular routines. Eating well and taking a brisk walk are simple energy boosters that can help you stay in the moment. And nothing zaps holiday joy faster than fatigue, so make sure you get those z's.

Close each day with something restorative: a warm bath, a few yoga stretches or a chapter of an uplifting book. If your schedule starts to feel overwhelming, choose a quiet evening at home. Recharging isn't selfish; it's what allows you to fully show up for the season.

7. Manage Expectations and Practice Flexibility

The holidays rarely go exactly as planned, and that's more than OK. Letting go of perfectionism not only prevents frustration, but also opens the door to unexpected moments of joy and memories you didn't know you were making.

Maybe you end up ordering pizza because the turkey never thawed. Or you swap sledding for a holiday movie when the weather doesn't cooperate. These pivots can become new favorite low-key traditions! Deciding to make the best of any situation can turn holiday chaos into moments of laughter and creativity with the potential to surprise you in the very best way.

Are You Ready To Rethink the Holidays Through Simplicity and Connection?

Finding joy in the holidays is easier when you prioritize what truly matters and direct your time and money there. This season, trade perfection and endless to-do lists for the kinds of heartfelt memories that stick with you long after the decorations are packed away.

This is also the time to give yourself the joy of a stronger financial new year. Think of your holiday budget as permission to spend money in ways you've pre-approved. Knowing you're spending within your means can relieve your mental load, helping you enjoy the moment instead of worrying about the bill.

Finally, carry that mindset forward. Explore healthy financial habits for the year ahead, whether it's opening a high yield savings account, money market account or certificate of deposit (CD). These choices give "future you" the freedom to spend intentionally on things that bring real comfort and joy.

Give yourself the gift of financial wellness. Explore our savings products today to jump-start your savings plans for the new year.