03 Dec Priorities and Boundaries Part 2: How’s Your December Feeling So Far?
Last week I talked about priorities and boundaries and how we can protect our energy so December doesn’t just sweep us along. A week in, I’m noticing myself how hard that actually is, even when we’re aware of it.
December is demanding. It’s full of expectations. Even with boundaries in place, keeping all the plates spinning is tough because new demands arrive while the usual ones are still there.
The thing is, this isn’t (necessarily) about having a quiet December.
It’s about making absolutely sure you actually get a bit of what you want and need.
The point is: don’t meet every expectation and in the process forget to meet your own needs. Maybe you need a slow morning. Maybe it’s a long Winter walk or a fun night out until 2am with friends. If we don’t carve out space for ourselves, we end up exhausted, resentful or missing the parts that make December feel good in the first place.
I read something this week about people’s favourite Christmas memories. Unsurprisingly, it’s rarely the big stuff we remember fondly. It’s the no pressure wander around the shops for the atmosphere, the ornament on the mantel that’s been there for twenty years, the connection with others, the long sleeps, the Winter walks.
Those small, simple moments are the ones that create nostalgia.
Whatever yours is, make sure to prioritise it.
Here’s your friendly December reminder:
Check in daily.
Ask: “Am I doing this because I want to, or because I feel I should?”
Obligations exist, of course they do, but limit them where you can.
Grab the small wins.
A favourite tradition, a quiet moment, a festive playlist.
Whatever brings you a spark, plan it like an appointment.
Say yes to at least one thing that fills you up.
Even if you see it as indulgent or “unnecessary,” let yourself have it.
A long bath, a spontaneous night out, an extra slice of cake. No guilt.
December is short.
Make it yours. Run it, don’t let it run you.