A list like that can quickly induce stress and anxiety – things that are the exact opposite of what the holiday season should include. I remember as a kid, the holidays were so much fun for me. They felt light and airy and exciting. Obviously, my parents were doing a lot of behind the scenes work to make those feelings possible, but there’s no reason I shouldn’t still have that joy of the holidays without the stress now that I’m a parent myself. 

So this year, I challenge you to change your to-do list. And while there are details that certainly have to be covered, it’s equally important to include some items on your list that serve no purpose other than providing you with pure, simple f-u-n. 

Grab a piece of paper right now (or open up a blank document on your computer) and create a “Fun To-Do” list. Put down things that you loved doing during the holidays as a kid, or always wanted to do. As a kid, I loved our annual night of driving through neighborhoods to look at lights. My parents would make hot chocolate for us, we’d put Christmas music on in the car, and we’d drive around for a couple of hours “oooooohing” and “ahhhhhing” over the lights. And one thing that I always wanted to do, but never did, was make a gingerbread house. That’s something I’d love to try with my kids this year. 

Speaking of kids – if you have them, let them join in the process of creating your “Fun To-Do” list. What a great example you can set for them by showing that it’s not just the details in life, but that having fun is just as important. And they are most likely to come up with the best fun items on the list. 

Finally, think ahead to early January. How do you want to feel, and how do you want to remember your holiday season? Do you wan to remember a month of fun and excitement, or of stress and anxiety? Be sure to make your lists accordingly.