How to Survive the Holidays as a Young Adult

Does it ever feel like the time between Halloween and New Year’s vanishes in a blink? You’re not alone—so many people say things like, “I swear everything between Halloween and Christmas is just one after the other, and it goes by so fast!” This feeling is especially common for young adults juggling school, work, social events, and the extra chaos of the holiday season.

Time Compression - What is it?

This whirlwind sensation has a name: time compression. It happens when life gets so packed with activities that our brains don’t fully process everything, making time feel like it’s speeding up. Add holiday stress to the mix, and it’s easy to feel like the season is passing you by before you even get a chance to enjoy it.

Tips for Staying Mindful and Grounded During the Holiday Season

But here’s the good news: the holidays don’t have to be a blur. By making a few small changes, you can slow things down, be more present, and actually enjoy the season. Check out these tips for staying mindful and grounded this holiday season:

1. Set Your Priorities

Before the holiday rush sweeps you away, take a second to figure out what actually matters to you. Is it spending time with friends and family? Catching up on much-needed rest? Getting in some festive vibes like decorating or movie marathons? Write down your top priorities so you don’t get lost in everything else. When things feel overwhelming, come back to your list to stay focused. 

2. Don’t Overpack Your Schedule

Between Friendsgiving, ugly sweater parties, family gatherings, and end-of-semester deadlines, your calendar can fill up fast. It’s tempting to say yes to everything, but overloading yourself will just leave you feeling drained. Pick and choose events that really matter to you, and don’t feel guilty about skipping the ones that don’t.

3. Breathe When It Gets Overwhelming

Ever feel like you’re running on autopilot, just going from one thing to the next? That’s a sign to pause and take a breather. Try this: inhale for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for six. It’s called 4-4-6 breathing, and it’s a lifesaver when you need to calm down and reset. Bonus: it only takes a minute, so you can do it anywhere.

 4. Stop Chasing Perfection

It’s easy to feel like the holidays have to look like a Pinterest board or a rom-com—perfect thanksgiving tablespaces, perfectly wrapped gifts, matching Christmas pajamas, perfect vibes. The reality? No one’s holidays are perfect, and that’s okay! Those awkward, messy, or totally random moments are what you’ll actually remember. Let yourself relax and focus on what really matters: spending time with people you care about and having fun.

 5. Get Some Fresh Air

Feeling stressed or stuck in your head? Step outside. Whether it’s a post-thanksgiving meal walk, checking out some holiday lights, or a quick coffee run, a little time outdoors can work wonders. It clears your mind, gives you a mini energy boost, and helps you hit the reset button.

 Go-To Holiday Strategies

The holidays don’t have to feel like one big to-do list. By slowing down and staying mindful, you can actually enjoy the season instead of just surviving it. What’s your go-to strategy for staying chill during the holidays? 

How The Mind Spot Can Help

Need help getting through this holiday season? Jenny Saladino can help. Make an appointment with Jenny Saladino or one of our counselors today. Meet Our Counselors