Give Yourself the Gift of Peace: The Mental Health Benefits of Starting Holiday Prep Now
The holiday season is often painted as a time of pure joy, but for many, it can be overwhelming. Crowded stores, endless to-do lists, and a budget stretched thin can turn festive cheer into unwanted anxiety. But what if there was a simple, proactive way to reclaim the joy? The answer is to start now!
Planning and shopping for the holidays long before the December rush is a powerful act of self-care with significant mental health benefits.
It’s a Stress Reduction Superpower
The number one benefit of early preparation is avoiding last-minute stress. When you spread tasks out over weeks or months, you avoid the cortisol spike that comes with racing against a ticking clock. Instead of feeling frantic, you have an opportunity to feel organized and in control. This gradual approach turns a high-pressure deadline into a series of manageable, low-stress tasks.
Financial Relief for Your Mind
Money worries are one of the biggest sources of holiday stress. Starting at the beginning of the season lets you spread out the cost of gifts and hosting over a few months. This prevents the shock of one massive bill in December and helps you stick to your budget, allowing you to have a calmer mind and better start to the new year.
More Time for What Matters
When the biggest items are checked off your list, you free up precious time in the most magical, yet busiest, time of the year. This extra time isn't for running errands—it’s for enjoying the season. Picture quiet and cozy evenings, unhurried traditions, and genuine connection with the people you love. Planning early gives you the gift of being truly present.
Decorate Your Way to Joy
Decorating for the holidays can boost mood and overall well-being. Lights, festive colors, and familiar traditions help trigger feelings of comfort and happiness. In fact, 64% of people feel happier when surrounded by festive décor, and 57% say it gives them something to look forward to each year.
“Holiday décor sparks a neurobiological shift that’s great for our mental and physical well-being. By inviting festive décor earlier into our lives, we elongate the time we get to enjoy those benefits,” says Deborah Serani, Psy.D., professor of psychology at Adelphi University. “These holiday traditions can also evoke positive memories and feelings of nostalgia, helping families connect and celebrate together.”
Intentional, Thoughtful Giving
When you’re not rushed, giving becomes more meaningful. Starting now allows you to take your time, compare prices, and put genuine thought into what each person would love. This shift from transactional to thoughtful giving can boost your mood, as acts of kindness and meaningful connections are powerful contributors to happiness and well-being.
This year, give yourself the greatest gift of all: peace of mind. By tackling your to-do list a little at a time, you ensure that the holiday season you're planning is one you'll get to relax and enjoy.