Enjoying the Holidays Without Stress is possible when we focus on meaningful traditions, manage finances, and enjoy the joys and challenges of the Christmas season.
Moms, I see you. The holidays are here, and with them comes all the excitement—and all the pressure. You’re juggling wish lists, meal plans, decorations, and family gatherings. It can feel like the weight of making the season magical rests entirely on your shoulders.
But what if, this year, you could let go of the stress? What if the holidays didn’t have to break the bank or your sanity?
Today, let’s discuss how to make that happen.
Here’s a simple, mom-tested plan for enjoying the holidays without stress or financial regret.
Shift Your Focus to What Truly Matters
The holidays aren’t about Pinterest-perfect decorations or a mountain of gifts under the tree. They’re about connection—being together, making memories, and showing love.
Take a deep breath and ask yourself: What do I want my kids to remember about this season?
The smell of cookies baking together in the kitchen.
Snuggling on the couch for a Christmas movie.
Laughing at the table during a family game night.
These are the moments that matter. Give yourself permission to let go of the rest.
Set a Budget and Stick to It
I get it—there’s always that temptation to buy “just one more thing” for your kids or say yes to one more holiday outing. But overspending now often leads to stress later.
Here’s how to take control:
Write down every holiday expense you can think of—gifts, food, travel, decorations.
Decide how much you can afford for each.
Commit to sticking to your budget.
Enjoying the Holidays Without Stress using these Money-Saving Ideas
Swap fancy gifts for heartfelt ones, like homemade photo albums or handwritten notes.
Plan simple, affordable meals your family loves.
Get creative with DIY decorations (kids love making paper snowflakes or garlands!).
Remember, your family doesn’t need “more stuff” to feel loved—they need you.
Manage Your Time and Reduce Your Stress
Moms, we’re so good at trying to do it all. But let’s be honest: no one remembers if the Christmas tree is perfectly symmetrical or if every gift is flawlessly wrapped.
Instead of chasing perfection, focus on creating joy.
These steps can help shift your perspective, restore a sense of control, and maintain emotional balance amidst chaos.
Plan a few meaningful traditions, like baking cookies, looking at holiday lights, or volunteering as a family.
Schedule time to rest—yes, rest!
Say “no” to activities that feel more like obligations than joy-bringers.
When we slow down, we make space for the little moments that matter most.
Simplify Gift-Giving
Gifts are wonderful, but they don’t need to overwhelm your budget—or your living room. Instead of buying for everyone, focus on thoughtful, meaningful giving.
Ideas to Keep It Simple
Encourage a family gift exchange or “Secret Santa” to limit the number of gifts.
Choose gifts with heart, like a framed family photo or a “coupon book” of experiences (a family movie night, breakfast in bed, etc.).
Teach your kids the joy of giving by donating toys or volunteering together.
Kids don’t need piles of presents to have a magical holiday—they need the security of love, laughter, and presence.
Enjoying the Holidays Without Stress Summary
This Christmas season, let’s stop striving for perfection and focus on what really matters: the Lord, connection, and gratitude.
Enjoying the holidays without stress is possible when you remember you don’t need to do more or spend more to make this season memorable for your family. You just need to be there. Be present. Be yourself.
God has equipped us to rise above the chaos and enjoy this holiday season without stress or overspending.
This is an important episode. In it, I share 3 Steps to Overcome Overwhelm that will bring you comfort, healing, and peace as you face all that’s happening in the world.
In today’s episode, I tackle a feeling we all know too well: overwhelm. Life can throw so much at us, whether it’s balancing work and family, managing our homes, or staying on top of commitments, and sometimes it just feels like too much. But here’s the good news—overcoming that overwhelming feeling is possible.
Today, I will walk you through three simple, practical steps to comfort your heart, find peace, and focus on what truly matters. Let’s explore these practical steps to help you move from feeling swamped to feeling steady and equipped for whatever life brings.
Step 1: Focus on What You Can Control
In times of global or personal chaos, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by events beyond your control. A key to overcoming this is to focus on the small, manageable actions you can control. This could be establishing a daily routine, managing your time effectively, or even doing something positive for yourself or others. Shifting your attention from what’s outside your control to what you can influence gives you a sense of purpose and direction.
Example: Begin your day with a simple task like making your bed or planning a small, achievable goal. This creates a sense of accomplishment and structure, even when the world feels chaotic.
Step 2: Practice Grounding Techniques to Stay Present
Often, the feeling of overwhelm comes from worrying about an uncertain future. Grounding techniques can help bring you back to the present moment. Mindful breathing, meditation, or even engaging in physical activities like walking or stretching can reconnect you to your body and mind, allowing you to let go of spiraling thoughts about the future.
Example: When feeling overwhelmed, try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique. Name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This exercise calms your mind by engaging your senses.
Step 3: Limit Exposure to Srreessful Information
In today’s hyperconnected world, constant exposure to stressful news or social media can fuel anxiety. Set boundaries on how much time you spend consuming information that heightens your stress levels. Instead, seek out uplifting content or focus on activities that nourish your mental and emotional health.
Example: Set specific times during the day when you check the news or social media, and limit your exposure outside of those times. Instead, use that freed-up time to read, practice a hobby, or connect with loved ones.
These steps can help shift your perspective, restore a sense of control, and maintain emotional balance amidst chaos.
Scripture to Meditate On
1. Focus on What You Can Control
Proverbs 16:3 “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”
Matthew 6:34 “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
2. Practice Grounding Techniques to Stay Present
Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
3. Limit Exposure to Stressful Information
Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Romans 12:2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Psalm 55:22 “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
Wrapping It Up: Overcoming Overwhelm is Possible
As we wrap up, remember that overcoming overwhelm is a journey—one you don’t have to navigate alone. Each small step you take to simplify, prioritize, and refocus brings you closer to a life of clarity and calm.
Embrace the changes slowly and celebrate each victory, knowing peace and purpose are possible.
God has equipped us with the tools to rise above the chaos and live each day confidently and intentionally. Take heart, stay hopeful, and know that you have the strength to overcome anything that comes your way.
Finding the Silver Lining: How to See the Good in Tough Moments. Life is unpredictable. As a mom, I’ve come to expect that there will be days (and sometimes whole seasons) when things simply don’t go as planned. From the little disruptions like missed appointments or sleepless nights to the bigger storms that leave you questioning everything, life doesn’t let us coast for long before throwing a curveball. And let’s be real—it’s hard. When you’re deep in the middle of the mess, it’s easy to focus on what’s going wrong, the overwhelming challenges, and the never-ending stress.
As moms, we have an incredible ability to find hope, even in the darkest times. It’s what keeps us going and fuels us to keep showing up for our families daily. And when we find that silver lining, we can move forward with a little more strength, a little more grace, and a lot more faith.
Over the years, I’ve learned something that’s changed how I see these trials. There’s always a silver lining.
So, how do you find the good when you’re in the middle of a tough season? It starts with a simple question: What can I learn from this?Or maybe, How is this changing me for the better? It doesn’t have to be a big, life-altering revelation—sometimes the silver lining is just realizing that you’re stronger than you thought or that you’re not alone in your struggle.
The Power of Acknowledging the Struggle
First, let me be clear: finding the good doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine when it isn’t. There are real struggles, and it’s important to acknowledge them. I’ve been through my share of storms, literal and metaphorical, and I know how easy it is to feel weighed down by the burdens we carry. Whether it’s dealing with a financial crisis, health issues, or the heartbreak of strained relationships, we all have moments when life feels too heavy to bear. And in those moments, feeling frustrated, exhausted, and even hopeless is okay.
Shifting Your Perspective
God has taught me that finding the silver lining requires a shift in perspective. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s not always easy. But when we intentionally start looking for the good—no matter how small—we begin to see it. Maybe it’s a lesson we’ve learned through the trial, a new strength we’ve discovered in ourselves, or a moment of kindness from someone who stepped in to help.
In my life, I’ve found that even in the toughest moments, there’s always something I can hold on to—a tiny flicker of hope that reminds me this hardship won’t last forever. It’s not about ignoring the pain or glossing over the challenges but rather choosing to focus on the growth that can come from them.
The Good That Comes Through Trials
When I think about the toughest moments in my life, what stands out isn’t the pain I felt at the time—it’s the strength I gained from walking through it. Every challenge has shaped me into the person I am today. I’ve learned patience, resilience, and, perhaps most importantly, empathy. As moms, we’re often the ones holding everything together, but it’s through the trials that we learn just how strong we are.
It’s also through these trials that we become more compassionate toward others. I’ve found that the struggles I’ve faced have opened my eyes to the pain others are going through, allowing me to connect with them on a deeper level. That connection, that understanding, is one of the silver linings that can come from hardship.
Finding the Silver Lining
So, how do you find the good when you’re in the middle of a tough season? It starts with a simple question: What can I learn from this? Or maybe, How is this changing me for the better? It doesn’t have to be a big, life-altering revelation—sometimes the silver lining is just realizing that you’re stronger than you thought or that you’re not alone in your struggle.
As moms, we have an incredible ability to find hope, even in the darkest times. It’s what keeps us going and fuels us to keep showing up for our families daily. And when we find that silver lining, we’re able to move forward with a little more strength, a little more grace, and a lot more hope.
Wrapping It Up
Life’s trials are never easy, but they don’t have to be our undoing. God always has something good to be found, even if it’s just realizing God is your hope and you can make it through. So, the next time you find yourself in a storm, take a moment to look for that glimmer of light. It’s there, waiting for you to discover it.
I think we can all agree—these last few years haven’t been easy. We’ve all felt it, haven’t we? Holding Onto Hope can seem difficult. The weight of the world is pressing down, the uncertainty creeping in with every news report, the way it feels like we’re all just holding our breath, waiting for the next disaster. It’s a lot. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or maybe even scared, you’re not alone. I’m right there with you.
There’s something so human about wanting to protect the people we love from the chaos of the world, but what do we do when the world feels like it’s falling apart? How do we keep going when everything feels like too much? I don’t have all the answers, but I do believe this: even during the most challenging storms, there is still hope. There has to be.
Join me for a conversation about how to hold onto hope and find peace in turbulent times.
Feeling the Weight of the World
Let’s just start by acknowledging the truth: everything feels heavy right now. It’s not just in your head. You’ve been carrying so much, and it’s okay to admit it’s hard. Sometimes, we’re afraid to say it out loud because it feels like if we do, the weight might finally crush us. But the opposite is true—when we speak our fears, worries, and sadness, we begin to take away their power.
It’s okay to feel what you’re feeling. And it’s okay to take a moment to say, “This is hard.” Because it is hard, you’re human. You’re not supposed to be able to handle all of this without feeling it. And you’re not alone in carrying it.
Turning Toward What You Can Control
When the world feels like it’s spinning out of control, one of the most powerful things we can do is focus on the small things we can control. I know it might not seem like much, but the most minor actions can help us feel grounded in times of chaos. Maybe it’s making your bed in the morning or taking a few moments of quiet with your coffee. Perhaps it’s choosing to turn off the news for a while and let your heart rest.
These small acts remind us that we still have agency and that we can still choose peace even when everything around us feels chaotic.
Finding Peace in the Present Moment
I know it’s tempting to worry about tomorrow, next week, or even next year, especially when the future feels so uncertain. But here’s the thing: all we truly have is right now. This moment. And if we can learn to come back to the present, even just for a few minutes, we can find a little peace amidst the storm.
Try this with me—take a deep breath, hold it for a second, and slowly let it out. Do that a few more times. Close your eyes if you want to. Feel your feet on the ground; feel the air filling your lungs. This moment, right now, is where you are. You are safe. You are loved. The world might be chaotic, but in this moment, you are okay.
Leaning On Others
When life feels too heavy, it’s natural to want to retreat, to pull away from people. But that’s when we need community the most. We need to lean on each other to remind ourselves that we don’t have to do this alone. Maybe it’s reaching out to a friend or sharing a meal with someone you love. Maybe it’s just sending a text that says, “I’m struggling today. Can we talk?”
We weren’t meant to carry this burden alone. And when we share it with others, it gets just a little bit lighter. We find strength in those connections, even when everything else feels like it’s falling apart.
Holding Onto Hope
I won’t lie to you—there are days when hope feels distant. But I’ve also found that hope has a way of showing up when we least expect it. Sometimes, it’s in a kind word from a friend, a quiet moment of reflection, or the beauty of a sunrise after a long night. Hope is what keeps us going, even when we don’t know what the future holds.
Desmond Tutu once said, “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” And I believe that with all my heart. Even when things feel hopeless, light is still there, waiting to be found.
A Final Word on Holding Onto Hope
I want to remind you of something important: you are strong. You’ve carried so much already, and while I wish I could tell you the hard times are over, what I can tell you is this—you are not alone. We are in this together. And together, we will get through it.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed today, take a breath. Feel the ground beneath your feet. Reach out to someone you trust. And remember, even in the midst of chaos, peace is possible. It might not come all at once, but it comes in moments—moments where we choose love over fear, hope over despair, connection over isolation.
Albert Einstein said, “Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” Understanding ourselves, our emotions, and the people around us is where peace begins. So let’s keep seeking it together.
Wrapping Up Holding Onto Hope
In an increasingly overwhelming world, it’s easy to feel the weight of disasters, unrest, and political turmoil. This blog acknowledges that heaviness and offers heartfelt advice on how to find peace amidst the chaos. We can find moments of peace by focusing on what we can control, grounding ourselves in the present, leaning on others, and holding onto hope. The blog’s message is simple: you are not alone; together, we will get through these difficult times. It emphasizes the importance of understanding ourselves and others as the foundation for peace.
Quote: ”Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” — Albert Einstein
Scripture for Holding Onto Hope:
Jeremiah 29:11“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Isaiah 41:10“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Psalm 46:1“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Philippians 4:6-7“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-18“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
Lamentations 3:22-23“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
Romans 15:13“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
1 Peter 5:7“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Joshua 1:9“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Matthew 11:28-30“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Do you need to Kindle Your Spark? Some might say they would like to (re)kindle their spark. With the demands of everyday life, we can often feel like what we once had has all but disappeared. If you feel this way, I want to let you know you aren’t alone.
Today, my friend, Rachel Marie Martin and I discuss how to Kindle Your Spark. We want you to look in the mirror and not wondered, “Where did I go?” It’s true life is busy, but we don’t have to feel poured out and empty. The dreams, hopes, and joy we longed back in the day don’t die. We can reignite that inner fire we often lose as moms.
Join us for an honest conversation about how to reignite that inner fire within.
Why Do We Lose Our Spark
Moms are the heart of the home. We’re caregivers, problem solvers, chauffeurs, chefs, and a million other things. But while meeting everyone else’s needs, we often forget about our own. The spark dims as we trade our dreams for endless to-do lists, and we start to believe that who we are now is who we’ll always be—tired, worn-out, and lost. Or we lose our identity by replacing it with I’m a mom, wife, daughter, or ____________. But you and I both know there’s more to the story. We are more than what we do or the titles we wear.
Give Yourself Time to Find Yourself
When was the last time you did something just for you? I’m not talking about the two-minute coffee break while the kids are napping. I mean carving out real time for yourself to reflect on what brings you joy and lights up your soul. I know it’s hard. And now I’m watching my daughter and daughter-in-love struggle to get any break with a toddler and newborn underfoot.
Life is busy, and you’re needed by so many people. But finding yourself again isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. You are more than the roles you fill every day.
Allow yourself space to dream again, to rediscover the passions that made you feel alive before life got so complicated. It won’t happen overnight, but little by little, you’ll start to see glimpses of the person you were and, more importantly, the person you’re becoming.
Remove the Regulators That Eliminate Possibilites
You know those little voices that say, “You can’t,” “You’re too old,” or “It’s too late”? Yeah, those. They’re regulators—limiters that keep you from taking any action towards your goals. They tell you that what you desire isn’t possible. But those thoughts and feelings aren’t always accurate.
Remove those mental barriers. Replace them with, “What if?” What if you allowed yourself to pursue that dream, no matter how big or small? What if you stopped limiting yourself based on what you think you’re capable of and instead just tried? The truth is, you’ll never know what’s possible until you start removing the limits you’ve placed on yourself.
Fight for Your Story
Mom, your story is still being written. You’ve gone through hard things, and yes, maybe your spark has dimmed along the way. But that doesn’t mean the story ends here. You have a choice: You can let life’s challenges steal your light, or you can fight for your story—fight to find the woman inside of you who refuses to give up.
It’s not always easy. Some days, it feels downright impossible. But you’re not alone in this. We’re in this together, fighting for our stories, fighting for the lives we want, and fighting to show up as the women we know we’re meant to be. May I add that you can be a fabulous wife and mom and still keep the fire of who you are alive?
Be Willing to Be Vulnerable
And here’s the final key: vulnerability. Let go of the idea that you have to have it all together all the time. That’s just a lie we tell ourselves. The truth is, it’s in those raw, vulnerable moments that we connect with others and with ourselves the most. Be honest about where you are. It’s okay to say, “I’m struggling,” or “I don’t know who I am right now.” Vulnerability doesn’t make you weak—it makes you brave! I’ve seen too many people portray perfection only to crash when life gets blurry.
When you let yourself be seen, truly seen, you open the door for healing, growth, and transformation. You’ll find your spark again, not by pretending everything is perfect, but by embracing the mess and still choosing to show up.
You Are Worth Fighting For
So today, we asking you to do one thing: fight for your spark. Give yourself permission to chase after it, to fail, to try again. You are worth the fight, and your story is still being written.
Kindle Your Spark
I truly enjoyed reading Get Your Spark Back. Why? Because friend, I’ve lost my spark. I’ve let the fire dim. I lost myself in the various roles I’ve filled. And let me tell you, you have to work to get it back. But you can kindle your spark if you are intentional
Remember: “No decision is a decision.” Rachel Marie Martin
About Rachel Martin Morris
Rachel believes in the power of the human spirit to overcome, to thrive and to find deep joy and because of that she pours out her heart via these platforms: she is the writer behind the site FindingJoy.net and author of Get Your Spark Back, Mom Enough and The Brave Art of Motherhood and a founding partner in Audience Industries – a company designed to train and equip entrepreneurs in their ventures.
Have you ever paused to consider the profound impact you have on your children’s lives? In a world that often underestimates the significance of motherhood, it’s crucial to remember that motherhood is a ministry. It’s a high calling, a divine appointment, and an opportunity to shape the hearts and minds of your children in a way no one else can. The success of the next generation rests on your shoulders.
While others may dismiss the high calling of motherhood, they are simply blind to the truth. Mothers play an unmatched role in their child’s future success. We can’t believe the lies that moms don’t matter!
The Ministry of Motherhood
Motherhood is a ministry, a sacred calling bestowed upon us by God. In a society that often overlooks the profound importance of raising children, we must remind ourselves of the extraordinary role we play in our children’s lives. As mothers, we have the unique ability to influence, inspire, and shape the future through our daily interactions with our little ones.
One of the most beautiful aspects of motherhood is the ability to offer unconditional and enduring love. It’s in the quiet moments of rocking your baby to sleep, the joyful giggles during playtime, and the comforting hugs after a long day that you weave a tapestry of love that your children will carry with them throughout their lives. These seemingly small moments are the very essence of what makes motherhood a ministry.
The Attributes of Motherhood
Many mothers spend hours praying and asking the Lord to help them be the moms they desire to be. Friends, I want to encourage you by saying you will learn and grow in your role as a mother. Don’t be discouraged.
Nurturing: A mother’s touch is soothing, her voice calming. She knows how to comfort and care for her children in a way that no one else can.
Patience: Motherhood requires immense patience as you guide your children through their various stages of growth and development.
Selflessness: A mother often puts her children’s needs before her own, sacrificing time, energy, and sometimes even her own dreams for the sake of her family.
These attributes of motherhood underscore the profound truth that being a mother is more than just a role; it’s a divine calling. God gave you your children to teach and train for their good and His glory. But it will also require developing some personal attributes.
Personal Attributes of Motherhood
Wisdom: Mothers possess a unique insight and understanding, offering guidance and advice that can only come from deep love and experience.
Strength: A mother’s resilience is unparalleled. She faces challenges with courage and determination, always striving to do what’s best for her children.
Despite the world’s noise suggesting that motherhood doesn’t matter, it’s important to recognize that your role is vital.
Your children look to you not just for basic needs but also for emotional and spiritual support. They need you to protect them from harm, teach them right from wrong, love them unconditionally, serve them with a joyful heart, and play with them. All these actions create lasting memories.
Motherhood is a Divine Calling
Motherhood is a ministry. It’s a divine calling to influence your children in ways that only you can. While society may undervalue this role, remember that in God’s eyes, your work is of eternal significance. Your ministry as a mother extends beyond the immediate tasks of daily life; it touches the very core of who your children will become.
Feeling Overwhelmed and Overlooked
So, the next time you feel overlooked or underappreciated, remember this: motherhood is a ministry. It’s a beautiful, challenging, and rewarding calling that shapes not only the lives of your children but also the future of our world. Embrace it with all your heart, for there is no higher calling than to be a mother.
Remember, you are not just raising children; you are raising future leaders, thinkers, and compassionate human beings. Your role is vital, and your influence is immeasurable. Motherhood is indeed a ministry, and you are doing a remarkable job.
Keep leaning on the One who knows what your children need far better than you for wisdom. Keep going. You’re doing a remarkable job.
