I love the holiday season just as much as anyone. The lights, the parties, the energy all feel so magical. But while some people are fully in vacation mode, I’ll be honest, I have a hard time unplugging. My to-do list never really disappears, and I’ll catch myself thinking about work long after the day is supposed to be over. If you’re someone who doesn’t exactly have a traditional nine to five (hi, agents), you know the struggle. It’s not easy to shut your brain off when your phone basically is your office.

So as we head into Christmas and the New Year, I’m making it a priority to reset, slow down, and actually give myself permission to breathe a little. If you’re the same way, keep reading because we all deserve to pour a cocktail, kick back, and just chill for once.

Be Realistic About Time Off

In theory, it sounds amazing to completely disconnect for the holidays and spend a week doing absolutely nothing. But let’s be honest, not everyone has that luxury, and that’s okay. If you need to check your email, make a few calls, or keep an eye on things so the world doesn’t implode while you’re away, do it. Just keep it realistic.

I’ve learned to focus only on the essentials, not busy work. Knock out the few things that truly matter, communicate it to whoever needs to know, and then *close * the laptop. You don’t get extra points for inventing tasks just because you’re scared to unplug.

Plan and Work Ahead

This is my go-to every single year. Planning ahead means I actually get to enjoy my time off instead of stressing about what I didn’t finish.

I usually create a holiday plan a few weeks before things get busy. That might mean scheduling emails, prepping content, or wrapping up open projects early. It does take a little extra effort upfront, but it makes such a difference when you can actually relax without that “I forgot something” anxiety hanging over you. Future you will be SO thankful.

Set Boundaries (and Stick to Them)

Once you’ve done the prep, commit to your time off. Actually put it on your calendar, dates, times, all of it, and treat it like a non-negotiable appointment. Let your clients, coworkers, or team know exactly when you’ll be out and unavailable. Setting that expectation early gives everyone time to plan around it, and honestly, it’s so freeing.

And while you’re at it, set boundaries with yourself too. No sneaky “just checking in” moments. You’ve earned the break. Take it!

Turn Off the Notifications

This one’s hard, I know… But it’s also the most necessary. Turn off those work notifications. No emails, no Slack, no “urgent” messages popping up during family dinner. Trust me, they’ll be there when you get back.

If you’re feeling nervous about missing something, set up an OOO reply that lets people know when you’ll respond. It creates a little mental buffer and gives you permission to actually relax.

Remember Why You’re Doing It

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, especially when your career moves fast and your phone NEVER stops buzzing. But taking time for yourself isn’t lazy, it’s essential. When you slow down, you come back more creative, more productive, and honestly, a lot happier.

So this season, give yourself the gift of balance. Plan ahead, set your boundaries, and let yourself actually enjoy the holiday. Because the truth is, the work will always be there, but these moments won’t.

Cheers to slowing down and soaking up the season!

xx, Farrah