Set Healthy Boundaries during the holidays Chasing Brighter

The holidays are here, and while the season brings joy and celebration, it also comes with endless invitations, requests, and obligations. If your calendar is starting to look more like a marathon training schedule, it’s time to hit pause and set some boundaries! Check out our tips on how to set healthy boundaries during the holidays in this post and our recent podcast episode.

You can listen to this episode here:

Why Is It So Hard to Say No?

Many of us struggle with saying no because we’re conditioned to please others. We fear disappointing friends, family, or coworkers. But here’s the truth: every “yes” you say to something that doesn’t align with your priorities means saying “no” to something else—often your own well-being.

Setting boundaries isn’t about rejecting others; it’s about honoring your values. Think of it as giving yourself permission to focus on what truly matters.

4 Tips to Say No Without Guilt

1. Get Clear on Your Priorities

Before the season kicks into high gear, take a moment to reflect on what’s most important to you. Write down your top priorities, whether that’s quality time with your family, rest, or simply enjoying a calm, peaceful season.

When requests come your way, ask yourself: Does this align with my priorities? If not, it’s easier to say no.

Pro Tip:

Choose a mantra or vibe for your holiday season—like “calm and peace” or “fun and adventure.” Use this as a guide to filter invitations and activities.

2. Reframe Your Mindset

Saying no isn’t selfish—it’s self-care. When you decline a request, you’re not rejecting a person; you’re choosing to protect your time and energy.

Research from the American Psychological Association shows that the negative effects of saying no are far less significant than we think. Often, people are more understanding than we give them credit for!

Mindset Shift:

Instead of seeing no as a negative, think of it as a positive. You’re saying yes to what truly serves you—whether that’s rest, relaxation, or simply having a quiet evening.

3. Practice Saying No Gracefully

Declining an invitation doesn’t have to feel awkward. Use simple, polite responses that get your point across without overexplaining.

Examples of Graceful Nos:

“Thank you so much for thinking of me, but I’m not available this time.”
“I’m so honored by the invite, but I’ve committed to other plans.”
“I really appreciate the offer, but I’ll have to pass this time.”

Polite, kind, and firm—no need to apologize or give a detailed explanation.

4. Plan Your Yeses Intentionally

The flip side of saying no is making your yeses count. Be deliberate about what you agree to so your holiday schedule feels meaningful and manageable.

Ideas for Intentional Yeses:

Host a small, cozy gathering instead of a massive party.
Plan a family outing that aligns with your holiday mantra.
Say yes to events or activities that genuinely bring you joy and connection.

Let Go of Perfection This Season

It’s easy to feel pressure to do it all—perfect family photos, every holiday tradition, endless gift exchanges. But not everything serves your happiness or aligns with your values.

Real-Life Example:

Jessica shared how she simplified her family Christmas cards by taking casual, fun photos at home. No professional shoots, no stress—just joyful moments captured in the moment.

Reference Episodes to Dive Deeper

Key Takeaways to Protect Your Time

Get Clear on Your Priorities: Use them as a filter for decisions.
Reframe Your Mindset: Saying no is a gift to yourself, not a rejection of others.
Practice Saying No Gracefully: Be polite, firm, and keep it simple.
Plan Yeses Intentionally: Commit only to what aligns with your values and brings you joy.

The Gift of Saying No

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of time, energy, and peace by setting boundaries. Saying no takes practice, but it’s one of the best ways to make space for what truly matters.

Remember: the holidays are meant to be a time of joy, not stress. By protecting your time, you’re not just surviving the season—you’re thriving through it.

For more reading you can check out:

Wishing you a joyful, stress-free holiday season! 🎄✨