Every year, as the leaves turn golden and the air cools, I feel that familiar mix of excitement and overwhelm. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays—it’s full of love, gratitude, and family—but it can also bring extra stress. Between planning meals, wrapping up business projects, and making sure my kids have everything ready for their school events, it’s easy to forget to pause and breathe. That’s why I remind myself to stress less and enjoy more this Thanksgiving season.
I recall a year when I tried to do it all—hosting dinner for twelve, completing a new client proposal, and managing a holiday promotion for my business. By the end of the week, I was exhausted. I had checked every box but felt like I had missed the joy. That experience taught me something powerful: results don’t just come from hard work—they also come from rest, gratitude, and a sense of grace.
Now, I approach Thanksgiving differently. I plan, simplify wherever possible, and focus on what truly matters: family, connection, and gratitude. You can do the same, and it doesn’t take a fancy planner or complicated strategy. It just takes intention.
1. Simplify Your Schedule
Start by taking a good look at your to-do list. I know how easy it is to fill every minute, but more tasks don’t always mean more results. Ask yourself, “What can I release?” or “What can wait until next week?”
This year, instead of launching a new program right before the holidays, I’m using the time to reconnect with my clients and community. I send simple thank-you notes or voice messages—something personal, not polished. These small gestures go a long way. When we focus on connection instead of perfection, we stress less and enjoy the Thanksgiving season more.
2. Plan, but Keep It Flexible
As a mom and business owner, I’ve learned that flexibility is key. Plans are great, but life rarely follows them perfectly—especially during the holidays! My kids might need extra help with school projects, or a client might have a last-minute question. Instead of fighting those changes, I now leave open space in my calendar.
I set time blocks for work, family, and rest. And if something shifts, I don’t panic—I adjust. This one mindset change has helped me lead both my home and my business with more calm and confidence.
3. Make Gratitude a Daily Habit
It’s easy to say we’re thankful, but genuine gratitude grows when we make it part of our routine. Every morning in November, I write down three things I’m grateful for. Some days it’s big—like landing a new client or watching my daughter perform on stage. Other days it’s simple—a hot cup of coffee, a quiet walk, or a smile from my husband.
This daily practice not only grounds me but also fuels my creativity. When I lead from a place of gratitude, my business feels lighter. I make clearer decisions, I connect more deeply, and I find joy even in small wins. Gratitude helps me stress less and enjoy more this Thanksgiving season—and beyond.
4. Set Boundaries That Protect Your Peace
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned as an entrepreneur is learning to say “no.” When you’re building a business, it feels like every opportunity matters. But not every “yes” serves your peace or your purpose.
During the holidays, I set clear boundaries around my time. I turn off notifications after 6 p.m., block out family time on my calendar, and permit myself to step away from my inbox. My clients understand—and honestly, most of them respect me even more for it.
Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out; they’re about showing up fully when you’re present. That’s the real secret to enjoying both your business and your family time.
5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
If there’s one thing I want you to take from this, it’s this: you’re already doing enough. You don’t need the perfect dinner table, the perfect business plan, or the perfect social media post. What your family, your clients, and your community need most is you—real, present, and peaceful.
This Thanksgiving, I’ll be cooking with my kids, sharing stories at the table, and laughing over a few kitchen “fails.” And when Monday rolls around, I’ll bring that same energy into my work—grateful, rested, and inspired.
Because when we stress less, we lead better. And when we lead with love, everything else falls into place.
This season, let’s choose grace over hustle, gratitude over pressure, and joy over perfection. Together, we can create a rhythm that feels good for both our hearts and our businesses.
If you have questions or need support with business planning, please schedule a complimentary clarity session with me. Click here to schedule now.
