Slowing Down and Cherishing What Matters Most
As I sit here, healing from my back injury—yet again—I can’t help but think about how life has a way of slowing us down when we don’t do it ourselves. It’s as if my body is forcing me to pause and to notice what really matters, especially now, with the holiday season right in front of me.
The holidays are supposed to be about connection, joy, and gratitude. Yet, for me, it always becomes a whirlwind of to-do lists, endless errands, returns, and the pressure to be everything to everyone. It happens to me every single year, I’ve always pushed myself for the “perfect” holiday experience. But this year, as I’ve been physically forced to slow down, my heart is telling me that maybe less truly is more.
Recently, I’ve been hearing the same desire, the same feelings from friends and family: We crave simplicity. We desire for a return to what’s real and meaningful—the moments that can’t be bought or wrapped. And as I sit here thinking, it’s clear to me that what’s most important isn’t the Christmas cards, the coordinating Christmas outfits, decorations, the gifts, or the perfectly set table. It’s our health, our families, and the relationships we hold close to our hearts.
This change in how I see things has been a blessing on its own. It’s made me realize how much my kids are watching and learning from me. If I spend the holidays in an irritable rush, trying to do it all, what kind of message am I sending? But if I slow down, if I focus on connection over perfection, I can show them that the season isn’t about how much we do but how much we feel.
So this year, I’m choosing to change my story. I am going to try and focus on the things that truly matter, and I’d love to share three small steps I’m going to take to help slow down and enjoy the season.
1. ♥️ Say “no” more often
It’s okay not to do everything. It’s okay to skip the perfect Christmas cards, pass on the cookie swap, or say no to that one extra party. Instead, protect your time and energy for what truly matters—whether it’s spending a quiet evening at home, resting when your body needs it, or simply having space to sit on the couch watching the Hallmark channel.
2. ♥️ Create small, meaningful rituals
Rituals don’t have to be complicated to make a difference. Maybe it’s lighting a candle at dinner and sharing what you’re grateful for and what’s good in each other’s lives, watching a favorite holiday movie together, or taking a short ride or walk or a ride with a hot chocolate in hand to admire the neighborhood lights. The simple moments become the memories that stick, not the chaos of the hustle and bustle.
3. ♥️  Be present with the people you love
Put down the phone. Turn off the TV. Truly be there—with your family, your friends, and even with yourself. Ask questions, listen deeply, and soak up the time you have together. Presence and quality time is the most valuable gift we can give.
As I move through this season with a slower pace and a softer heart, I hope to teach my children that it’s okay to step back, to prioritize health and happiness over busyness, and to cherish what matters most. I hope this new story stays with them, guiding them to value simplicity and connection in their own lives.
To anyone else who feels overwhelmed, it’s okay to slow down. It’s okay to change up the holidays in a way that feels good to you. Let’s give ourselves permission to rest, to cherish, and to simply just be. Because when we do, we create space for the beauty of the season to shine—and that’s what truly matters.
From my heart to yours, Stacey ♥️
