Cozy Holiday Home Tips: The Cabinista Guide
Friday Open House: Fireside Chats
The Cabinista is the weekly guide to creating your cozy home! Expert tips, brand recommendations, and insider advice sent straight to your inbox.
The Cabinista is a reader-supported publication.
As we dive into the holiday season at The Cabinista, I find myself navigating a mix of emotions. It's a busy time, and it can be a bit much and, at times, a little overwhelming. I'm caught in a whirlwind of excitement for early decorating, which I adore as part of my job. Yet, I can't shake off the concern that this might unintentionally pressure others about their home not being decorated yet. Decorating is my passion and profession, and I love sharing all my tips and tricks. However, I'm very aware of the stress it can sometimes bring.
I once received a message from a man in Italy; his words about the importance of slowing down during the holidays and cherishing each moment resonated deeply. He pointed out the tendency in American culture to rush through life, and his observation hit home. I have this longing to embrace a slower pace, yet there's this underlying fear that it might conflict with the expectations I've set for myself or impact my end-of-year goals.
It's that classic dilemma: How does one balance a slower, more mindful life with the practicalities and demands of modern living? I don't know and will forever search for that answer.
With all that to say, if you feel the same way, know you're not alone. Behind the perfectly curated social media facades, there's real-life imperfection. My aim with The Cabinista is to offer a space of inspiration and ideas, not overwhelm. Think of it as your go-to source for design shortcuts and tips to make things less stressful and more fun. So, my advice? Decorate in a way and at a time that feels right for you, whether that's now, in December, or if it's been a tough year, perhaps taking a step back and keeping things simpler.
Take a deep breath, embrace the season in your own unique way, and most importantly, be kind to yourself through it all.
🎉 Ready to kick-off your holidays with this sanity-saving tip: Embrace the 'One Thing' Rule! That's right, just pick one holiday task each day to conquer - whether it's buying a gift, planning a meal, or wrapping a single present. Trust me, this approach will help you tackle your festive to-do list with less overwhelm and more joy. So, go ahead and try it out! Who knows, you might just transform your holiday season from frantic to fabulous! 🌟
Holiday De-stress Tips
Find Your Holiday Playlist or Podcast: Listening to music is like magic! Just turn on your favorite playlist and let the stress melt away. Oh, and if you're feeling extra overwhelmed during the holidays, I've got a podcast recommendation for you. This is my go to listen for reducing holiday stress Happyish Holidays.
Set Realistic Goals: Remember, it's not about perfection. Set achievable goals for decorating, cooking, and gift-giving. The holidays aren’t a competition.
Mindful Moments: Amidst the hustle, take short mindful breaks. A few minutes of deep breathing or a quick walk outside can work wonders.
Delegate and Share: You don’t have to do it all. Share the load with family or friends. It’s about making memories together, not just ticking off a to-do list.
Embrace Simplicity: Sometimes, less is more. A simple decoration or a modest dinner can be just as heartwarming.
Reflect and Appreciate: Take a moment to reflect on the year and appreciate the small victories and joys. It’s not just about looking forward to the holidays but also cherishing the journey that got you here.