The Only Christmas List You Need

Christmas is the season of lists. I love lists. They keep me on track and provide such a sense of accomplishment when you check things off as they are done. Check. Check. Check. So satisfying!

In December, there are even more lists than usual. There’s the gift list, the Christmas card list, the baking list, the shopping list… I’d never make it through without all my lists. Even with lists, Christmas and all the accompanying festivities can become overwhelming.

But this year…I don’t feel overwhelmed at all. Want to know the secret? I realized that I love all this stuff. I love all the decorating, shopping, baking, wrapping—ok, not the wrapping so much–but I love Christmas and all that goes with it. I love making people happy with presents and food and having an extra reason to hug someone and tell them they’re special to me. The message of Christmas is the song of my life. Of course I love this holiday!

I don’t feel pressured about all these things like I used to, when I was more focused on making everything “perfect,” because I’ve come to the conclusion that I do these things because I like to do them, not because I have to do them. Now I’ll just plan, do the best I can with the time I have and enjoy every minute of it!

My most important Christmas list looks like this:

  1. Give from the heart.
  2. Plan ahead and within limits—time and money.
  3. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!

Number 2 is very important. When I start to do more than I can really afford, I get stressed. When I try to cram “one more thing” into an already packed schedule, I can feel my blood pressure rising. It’s easy to get carried away, but respecting limits always brings peace.

A simple list. A guide for the month. It’s working. So far, I’m enjoying this Christmas season more than ever!

Does this list help simplify things for you? How are you feeling this Christmas season?