For Those Counting Down Until the Holidays Are Over

If you’re one of those people quietly thinking, “I can’t wait for this to be over,” I want you to know—I hear you. Not everyone loves this time of year, even if the world tries to convince us we should. The holidays can be exhausting, overwhelming, and honestly, a little lonely. And when you’re already feeling stretched thin, the endless “holiday cheer” can feel like one more thing you’re supposed to fake your way through. Let’s talk about it, because you’re not the only one counting down the days.

For many, the holidays bring stress, overstimulation, and a nagging sense that you’re not doing enough. Maybe it’s the weight of expectations—buying gifts, showing up for events, or putting on a happy face when you’re far from it. Maybe it’s something deeper, like grief, loneliness, or the constant reminder of what’s missing. And then there’s the season itself. The shorter days, the darker skies, the cold that seems to settle not just in your body but in your spirit, too. Seasonal depression often tags along with holiday stress, making it even harder to muster the energy for all that December demands. If this sounds familiar, you’re not broken. You’re not alone.

Not everyone thrives during the holidays, and that’s okay. For some of us, this time of year is a reminder of loss—whether it’s people, relationships, or the version of ourselves we wish we could get back to. For others, it’s the sheer mental and emotional exhaustion of trying to keep up with everything. Feeling like you just want to fast-forward through it all doesn’t make you ungrateful or unworthy. It makes you human.

If the holidays feel heavy for you, here are a few ways to make it through: Create your own traditions (or skip them altogether). If the typical holiday rituals don’t bring you joy, let them go. It’s okay to rewrite the season in a way that works for you—or to skip it entirely. Find quiet moments just for you. Whether it’s a hot shower, a slow morning with your coffee, or a few minutes of deep breathing, carve out small moments to breathe. You don’t need to fill every second with activity. Focus on what grounds you. Maybe it’s listening to music, journaling, or going for a walk. Whatever brings you back to yourself, lean into that. Remember, you don’t owe anyone an explanation. You don’t have to justify why you’re not feeling the holidays this year. You’re allowed to protect your energy and prioritize your well-being.

If the idea of “getting through” the holidays is all you can manage, that’s enough. You don’t have to love this season. You don’t have to participate in every tradition or meet every expectation. Right now, it’s about survival—and that’s okay. The days will get longer again. The weight will start to lift. You’ll get through this, one day at a time.

And if you need a reminder that you’re not the only one feeling this way, come back to this space. Let’s talk about it, without judgment, without pressure—just understanding. If this resonates, share what’s helping you get through. Or, if it feels like too much to share, just know you’re seen and not alone.