Mastering the art of slowing down and being present.
“It’s October… how are there already Christmas decorations out?”
Every year, it’s the same reaction. Every major season and holiday seems to start earlier and earlier. Months before the actual holiday, stores are filled with the “next best thing”. We’re encouraged to prepare for Valentines in January and Christmas in October. As I write this, it’s early November and several houses on my block are decked out with Christmas lights. The Thanksgiving Holiday hasn’t even arrived, and Instagram Influencers are busy promoting Holiday decor and wish lists.
As a culture, we are terrible at slowing down and living in the present. We seem to rush from one season to the next, always looking ahead instead of appreciating where we are.
I recently became aware of the trend “romanticizing” your life- a lifestyle movement that encourages slowing down, embracing simple joys, and finding meaning in everyday moments.Think of small acts like buying yourself flowers, baking something special, enjoying a slow conversation with a friend, or creating a mindful morning routine. These aren’t groundbreaking ideas—they're foundational mental health practices—but the fact that this has become a “trend” made me pause.
Why is slowing down a trend rather than a default way of life?
We’ve become so accustomed to being rushed and stressed that we don’t even recognize the pressure we put on ourselves. Despite the rise of mindfulness, meditation, and self-care awareness, many of us still fall into the same trap- we default to what everyone else is doing and remain in a frazzled state. Always trying to be three steps ahead.
So, how do we slow down in a culture that’s constantly pushing us forward?
My gift to you this holiday season: Incorporate small, meaningful tasks into your daily life—not as “self-care” but as essential habits. When we label something as self-care, we often interpret it as optional or something we have to “earn.” I challenge you to reframe the mindset, “have I done enough to deserve a break” to “have I rested enough to manage my workload.”
Here are a few easy ways to hold yourself accountable:
Set Limits.
Whether it’s your time, energy, possessions, or even your thoughts—boundaries matter. It’s okay to say “no” and not overextend yourself. Feeling completely depleted at the end of the day is not the marker of a successful day.
Mark It on Your Calendar.
Schedule intentional time for yourself just as you would any important event. Block out moments for creativity, spiritual reflection, social connection, or movement—whatever fills your cup.
Ask Yourself The Tough Questions.
Reflect on what’s getting in the way of the life you want. What’s stopping you from slowing down or prioritizing yourself? Lean into these questions to better understand where change is possible.
Ask for Help.
Seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. Being vulnerable enough to accept help is brave. People love to help, and asking for support allows others to show up for you. Think of how good it feels when someone reaches out to you in a time of need.
This holiday season, I invite you to slow down, be present, and create space for what truly matters. You don’t have to keep up with the fast-paced lifestyle others set—your worth isn’t measured by how much you accomplish or how perfectly you celebrate the next best thing. Give yourself permission to rest, set boundaries, and find joy in the small, meaningful moments. The most valuable gift you can give yourself is the grace to be exactly where you are—without rushing to the next thing. You are deserving of peace, presence, and rest—today and always.
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