A guide to stress-free holidays for you, from The Happy Ladder.

The end of the year is the perfect time to pause, look back, and enjoy the festive season. Whether you celebrate big with family and friends or choose to slow down and enjoy some time to yourself, this will help you move through the holidays feeling relaxed and start the new year fresh and energized.

• You are the gift. Be present. You don’t have to have everything figured out or sparkle like a Christmas star—just be real.
• Rest is festive. December is a marathon disguised as a party. Between deadlines and social plans, your body deserves some love. Sleep is a priority.
• Alternate glasses of wine and bubbles with water.
• Move your body in ways that feel good—not as punishment.
• Don’t skip meals to “make room.” Your body needs proper nourishment. Pleasure matters more than perfection.
• The best memories come from having fun—no one remembers flawless planning.
• Keep meals simple. Bread, olives, antipasti, a good (veggie) lasagna or bolognese, and ice cream for dessert. Guaranteed happy guests.
• The same goes for decorations: a few branches in a vase, some lights around them—instant celebration. You don’t have to do everything yourself. Shopping, cooking, cleaning, and decorating are much more fun together.
• Happiness can’t be measured in euros. An expensive gift isn’t necessarily a good gift. Give experiences instead: a walk together, help around the house, a dinner date, a playlist, nicely wrapped cookies, a handwritten note, or a drawing.
• Last minute? A digital voucher for a course or outing always works. Or a card with an invitation to do something fun together.
• Don’t stress. Who cares if the dish doesn’t look exactly like the picture in the cookbook?
• Let your aunt grumble a little. Are the kids super energetic? Take them outside to kick a ball around. Is a discussion getting heated? Change the subject and ask someone to help you in the kitchen.
• Did your brother have one glass too many? No big deal—just call an Uber. If you stay relaxed about it, it instantly feels less dramatic.

Take care of your soul.

• Know someone who’s alone during the holidays? A card, message, or phone call means a lot. Or drop by with some Christmas cookies—just to show you’re thinking of them. It’ll boost your own happiness too.
• Reflect on what went well this past year. Celebrate the small wins.
• Let go of grudges. The new year deserves a light beginning.
• You are not your job. Your work is not who you are—especially during the holidays. Take a break. Your work will survive without you.

If you’re working during the holidays—thank you.

Because you’re there, others get to celebrate. Create your own holiday on December 27 or January 3 and make it special. Stay in the bath a little longer, host a dinner with family or friends, go for a walk in nature—make it a celebration.
And for those who are off: show these heroes some love. Support the people who keep everything running during the holidays.

• Say thank you or write a card.
• Bring something tasty. Homemade cookies or a warm drink can make a shift feel festive.
• Be patient—your understanding really matters.
• Organize a celebration on another day so they can join too.

Carole, Jessica, and Jacqui together form The Happy Ladder. They research what helps you feel more relaxed, energized, and happy in everyday life. Want to know more? Follow The Happy Ladder on Facebook or Instagram—or even better, sign up for the monthly newsletter.