How to Stress Less This Thanksgiving: Tips for Letting Go and Sharing the Load
How to Stress Less This Thanksgiving: Tips for Letting Go and Sharing the Load
Thanksgiving is a holiday of gratitude, but let’s be honest—it often comes with a side of stress. Whether you’re hosting a full house or juggling holiday commitments, the pressure to do everything “just right” can be overwhelming. For years, I fell into the trap of trying to manage every detail myself, from cooking the turkey to perfecting the table settings. While it felt satisfying to pull it all off, it also left me exhausted and unable to fully enjoy the day.
This year, I’m embracing a new approach: sharing the load. My only responsibilities are cooking the turkey and opening the wine (okay, maybe not entirely, but close). Thanks to a shared list on the Notes app, everyone is pitching in, from preparing side dishes to buying dessert. And guess what? I don’t care if the pumpkin pie is store-bought because the whipped cream will be homemade—and that’s good enough.
If you’re looking to stress less this Thanksgiving, here are some tips to help you let go of the need to “do it all” and create a holiday you can actually enjoy.
1. Start with a Shared Plan
Organization is key to reducing holiday stress, and technology makes it easier than ever. Create a shared digital note or use a collaborative app like Notes or Google Keep. List all the tasks that need to be done, from grocery shopping to setting the table. Then, invite family or friends to choose the items they’re responsible for.
By distributing the workload, you’re not only lightening your own load but also allowing others to feel involved in the celebration. Plus, sharing the list ensures nothing is forgotten—or if it is, it’s a team effort!
2. Embrace Imperfection
Repeat after me: “Done is better than perfect.” The pressure to make everything look like a Pinterest board or Martha Stewart spread is unrealistic and unnecessary. Focus on what truly matters—time with loved ones.
The house doesn’t have to be spotless; clean the spaces where guests will spend the most time. And if dessert comes from the store or a side dish is slightly overcooked, it’s okay. Most people won’t notice, and they definitely won’t remember years later.
3. Delegate Wisely
Delegation isn’t just about handing off tasks—it’s about letting go of micromanagement. Assign tasks based on what others are comfortable doing. Your cousin might love making green bean casserole, while your partner is great at setting up the drink station.
And if someone offers to help, say yes. Whether bringing a dish or arriving early to assist with set-up, every little bit helps.
4. Prioritize Connection Over Perfection
Remember the true purpose of Thanksgiving: gratitude and connection. Spending time with family and friends is far more meaningful than perfect place settings or elaborate dishes.
Plan moments where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the company of your guests. Maybe it’s a post-dinner walk, a casual chat in the kitchen, or a shared laugh over something that didn’t go as planned. These are the memories that matter most.
5. Simplify the Menu
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean an endless array of dishes. Stick to a manageable number of must-have items. Focus on quality over quantity and let guests contribute their specialties to round out the meal.
Consider incorporating shortcuts, like buying pre-chopped vegetables or using store-bought crusts for pies. You’re not cutting corners; you’re creating space to breathe.
6. Set Boundaries and Be Realistic
It’s easy to overcommit during the holidays but remember you don’t have to say yes to everything. Be realistic about your time and energy, and politely decline tasks or invitations that don’t align with your priorities.
If you’re hosting overnight guests, set expectations for meals and activities. Let them know what’s planned—and what’s not. Sometimes, letting others fend for breakfast or organize their outings can take a significant load off your plate.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a whirlwind of stress and perfectionism. By embracing imperfection, delegating tasks, and prioritizing connection, you can create a meaningful and manageable holiday. This year, I’m taking my own advice: sharing responsibilities, accepting help, and focusing on the moments that matter. Whether you’re hosting or contributing to someone else’s celebration, remember—you don’t have to do it all.
Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, love, and a little less stress. Cheers!
