These ten women decided to let go of perfection so they could enjoy the holidays.
Delegated
I decided that even though the family gathers at our place, I didn’t have to be the head chef and delegated. I told everyone I’d only make the fish soup since it’s hard to transport — and bake the traditional roll. Everyone else could coordinate who brings what. So, my brother’s family took charge of the cabbage, my mom handled the layered pastry and gingerbread, my uncle brought the schnitzel and mashed potatoes, and my aunt took care of the duck leg and salads. No one minded, and I already feel relieved not to spend two full days slaving in the kitchen before Christmas Eve.
Away
I arranged with my brother back in summer that we’d travel somewhere for Christmas as a gift for our parents. It felt so good to tell mom and dad they’d spend the holidays with their kids and grandkids in the stunning Hallstatt, free from stressful relatives this year. (And me too!)
Time
I used to be the person who wrapped every gift meticulously and beautifully. I wrote personalized cards, chose wrapping paper that matched each person’s personality, and tucked in pine sprigs, berries, and decorations under the ribbon. Then I realized I was the only one admiring the fancy wrapping — everyone else just rips off the paper and gets straight to the gift, often skipping the card. So this year, I’m tossing everything into simple decorative bags and saving myself half a day. I’ll arrive at the celebration refreshed for a change.
Put Simply
We agreed to skip the usual tired gifts like ties, chocolates, or vases and only the kids will get presents. It’s such a relief not to stress over what to buy for my ultra-wealthy uncle or picky sister-in-law.
Keeping It Casual
My partner and I, both in our thirties without kids, bought a house this year. My family decided Christmas would be at our place. I said fine, but don’t expect a ten-course feast: my boyfriend will make pizza, I’ll whip up coconut balls, and we’ll eat everything on paper plates and cups because I want to enjoy the holiday with my family, not cater it. Everyone happily agreed — I was surprised!
Decorations
I’m not spending half a day decorating. Instead, I’ll lay out the boxes full of ornaments and let the kids dress up the house for the holidays. It’ll keep them busy and excited — my daughter can’t wait to start decorating.
Help
I told my family that this year I’m asking for my Christmas gift in advance: to chip in for a dishwasher. (Don’t worry, the family is big, so the amount wasn’t a shock.) The machine arrived a few days ago, and I love it. I’m already happy knowing I won’t be washing piles of dirty dishes on Christmas Eve.
The Menu
I realized I love cooking, decorating, and gift-giving — but baking feels like a chore at Christmas, so I’m skipping it this year. I told everyone I won’t bother with traditional rolls or layered pastries; there will be muffins instead. Anyone wanting something else should bring their own dessert. I also mentioned that for those who eat gluten- or sugar-free, I’ll only have one type of store-bought dessert. Last year I baked separately for my brother’s “everything-free” girlfriend — I’m not crazy…
Successful Outsourcing
This year — for the first time ever — I stood my ground and said I’m not taking on the usual roles of cook, baker, and waitress. Instead, the holiday plan is to dine out at a restaurant. Everyone loved the idea, and I already booked our table.
Wellness
Back in September, I convinced my family to skip gift-giving and spend the holidays at a wellness hotel instead. No cleaning, no cooking, a royal feast, music, and everyone doing whatever they enjoy. I expected some resistance, but everyone quickly agreed.
