If you’re a list maker, or even if you’re not, this is the time of year when lists seem to multiply: Christmas gifts to buy, gatherings to plan for and travel arrangements to make. It’s a season of celebration, but it’s also one of balance, as we try to create special moments without losing sight of our everyday responsibilities, especially financial ones.
The holiday and end-of-year stressors are real, so consider using this checklist to help you focus on the joy of the season.
- Pause and reflect. What were the highlights of 2025? Identify—and celebrate—any personal milestones or family and friend moments for which you’re grateful.
- Set a realistic budget. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gifts or adding up the costs of food, social activities or travel, your wallet may look a little slim. Create a
budget to keep you focused and track your spending to avoid post-holiday regret. Avoid credit cards if you won’t pay them off right away. - Reconsider your gift-giving. Homemade gifts, experiences or even just a simple gesture, like a handwritten note, can help reduce your holiday spending.
- Prioritize self-care. Create a family calendar of activities but remember to block some time for self-care and downtime. Reclaim the balance in your life.
- Check your savings. Do the dollars match your goals? Now may be a good time to set up that vacation or rainy-day fund, or even next year’s Christmas fund.
- Focus on connection. It’s not about where you go or what you do. Focus on meaningful conversations, sharing memories and laughing together with family and friends.
- Enjoy the moment. Let go of any idea of perfection and simply take in the people and events around you. Limit social media and avoid comparing your holidays with others.
Whether your Christmas plans are simple or extensive, taking a few of these ideas to heart can help you focus on what really matters this year.
Donna Hein is senior editor of Thrivent Magazine.
