Don't Just Survive, Thrive: 12 Simple Steps to Conquer Holiday Fatigue

A kinder way through the season

Holiday fatigue is common, but it doesn’t have to be the whole story. The twelve steps here are meant to be practical and flexible—small changes you can try without overhauling your life. Pick two or three techniques that feel doable this week: a short evening walk, one breathing practice before gatherings, and a plan to protect your sleep. Test them for several days and notice the differences in your mood, energy, and patience. Be gentle with yourself when things don’t go perfectly; resilience grows from consistency, not intensity. If certain strategies help, keep them as part of your routine. If something doesn’t fit, adjust it or let it go. The goal is not to create another to-do list but to build steady supports that let you enjoy people and moments with more ease. Choose small, kind actions and celebrate when they add up. You deserve a season that nourishes you, not one that drains you—one thoughtful step at a time.