Let’s face it—sometimes the holiday spirit doesn’t just “show up.” You don’t magically wake up in a Hallmark movie surrounded by twinkling lights, a perfect dusting of snow, and a golden retriever named Jingles. Nope. For most of us, the holidays roll in during a season of chaos: deadlines, errands, family logistics, and the occasional existential crisis over why your gift-wrapping never looks like Pinterest promised it would.
So, what do you do when life is full steam ahead, and you’re stuck somewhere between Grinch-mode and full-blown holiday cheer? You force it. Yep, I said it. Sometimes, getting into the holiday spirit is less about waiting for it to hit you and more about grabbing it by the hand-knit mitten and pulling it along.
Here’s how you can channel the magic—even if it feels like just another thing to check off your list.
Trick Yourself With Tiny Touches
Think baby steps. You don’t need to redecorate your whole house in one frantic Saturday or transform your front yard into the North Pole (looking at you, Clark Griswold). Start small. Toss a holiday-scented candle on your coffee table, swap out a regular hand towel for one with a snowflake or reindeer print, or string up some fairy lights on your bookshelf.
The key is creating little sparks of holiday cheer that feel manageable. Think of it as festive ambiance for the slightly reluctant holiday participant.
Channel the Spirit in a Mug
Not feeling jolly? You’d be surprised what a warm, seasonal drink can do. There’s something about sipping on a steaming cup of peppermint hot chocolate or mulled cider that melts even the iciest holiday mood.
Too busy for DIY drinks? Pick up a holiday latte from your local coffee shop (peppermint mocha, anyone?) or grab a bottle of pre-made eggnog to spike later. Bonus: you can sip and multitask. That’s efficiency and holiday cheer in one.
Fake It With Festive Tunes
Sometimes, you have to fake it ’til you make it. Pop on a holiday playlist, even if you’re not feeling it yet. Trust me, it works. There’s actual science behind music lifting your mood—so crank up some jazzy holiday classics or belt out Mariah Carey while you fold laundry.
And if traditional carols make your eye twitch, try nontraditional holiday hits or indie Christmas tracks. You do you, boo.
Immerse Yourself in Festive Vibes
Holiday lights are magical, but why stop there? Step into the heart of the season by visiting places that practically ooze holiday cheer. Stroll through a decked-out downtown with carolers and shop windows that sparkle, or check out a local holiday market bursting with handmade gifts, warm drinks, and cozy vibes.
If you’re short on time, even a quick drive through a festively lit neighborhood can work wonders. Better yet, plan an evening outing to a grand holiday light display, complete with hot cocoa in hand. The combination of twinkling lights, seasonal décor, and the buzz of cheerful crowds might be just the thing to nudge your mood toward merry.
Schedule Social Snippets
Let’s face it: holiday schedules are a logistical nightmare. Between work deadlines, family commitments, and your ever-growing to-do list, finding time for your people can feel impossible. But here’s the secret: meaningful moments don’t have to be big or time-consuming—they just need to happen.
Start with bite-sized plans. Grab a friend for a festive coffee date—peppermint mochas and holiday pastries practically scream seasonal cheer—or hit up a local holiday pop-up shop together. If you’re pressed for time, a quick FaceTime session with your bestie while you both wrap gifts can be just as fulfilling as an in-person hangout.
Want to mix fun with productivity? Turn last-minute holiday errands into mini social adventures. Invite a friend to join you for gift shopping or grocery runs, and make it festive with a stop for hot cocoa or a seasonal treat along the way. Even a quick walk through a decorated park or a drive to see the lights can feel magical when shared.
The key is intention. These small, joy-filled interactions don’t just help you connect with others—they also help remind you what the season is all about. It’s less about how long you spend and more about the laughter, memories, and festive spirit you share.
Commit to One Holiday Tradition
Sometimes, the pressure to do all the things sucks the joy right out of the season. Instead of overwhelming yourself with a checklist of every tradition you’ve ever had, choose just one that feels doable—and meaningful. Maybe it’s baking cookies (even if they’re the slice-and-bake kind), watching your favorite holiday movie in cozy pajamas, or writing a heartfelt card to someone who could use a little extra cheer.
The beauty of this approach is its simplicity. By focusing on one special tradition, you take the pressure off yourself while still tapping into the magic of the season. No need for elaborate plans or picture-perfect moments—just lean into what brings you joy.
And here’s the best part: once you get started, that single activity often sparks something bigger. Baking cookies might lead to sharing them with a neighbor. Watching a holiday movie could inspire you to decorate the tree or sip on a festive drink. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s participation. That small act can be just the nudge you need to unlock the rest of the holiday feels—and remind you why this time of year is worth celebrating.
Give the Gift of Small Wins
Nothing stirs up holiday magic like giving—even if it’s something small. Drop a few dollars in the Salvation Army bucket, Venmo a friend for a coffee, or surprise a neighbor with a batch of store-bought cookies (who has time to bake?).
The beauty of giving is that it’s a cheat code for feeling good. And let’s be honest, we could all use that kind of energy boost this time of year. (Check out this blog post for 25 Days of Giving ideas.)
Ditch the Myth of “Holiday Perfection”
If you’re chasing after some Instagram version of the holidays, stop. Right now. The spirit of the season isn’t in perfectly curated trees or color-coded wrapping paper; it’s in the real, messy, beautifully flawed moments.
Burnt cookies? They’re still edible. Lopsided tree? It’s “charming.” Missing a holiday party? Your couch is probably more comfortable anyway. Give yourself grace to celebrate your way.
Find Joy in the Chaos
Maybe the secret to the holiday spirit isn’t in controlling the chaos but in surrendering to it. Let the mess of the season be part of its charm. Laugh at the mishaps, celebrate the small victories, and lean into those moments of unexpected joy.
So, if you’re out there juggling 10,000 things and still trying to catch that holiday magic, remember this: the spirit isn’t something you find—it’s something you make. Start small, keep it simple, and don’t be afraid to force it. Sometimes, the effort itself is the most festive part.
