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Surviving the Holiday Hustle: Why You Need a Weekly Self-Care Night as a Business Owner
Ah, the holidays. The time of year that promises cozy vibes, family fun, and… overwhelm in a Santa hat. If you’re running a business, the holiday season doubles as an end-of-year sprint— client projects, promos, and the general chaos that leaves you wondering why there’s never enough time to enjoy the season.
But what if this year looked a little different? Imagine hitting pause once a week to actually take care of yourself (wild concept, right?). Let’s make weekly self-care nights a thing during the holiday season— a sacred set aside time to keep you from turning into a holiday-frazzled mess. Take it from me.
As someone who looked back after the holiday season in 2023 and realized that it 1) went by in the blink of an eye, LITERALLY, 2) didn’t allow any time in my schedule for things that *I* wanted to do, that made ME happy and fulfilled, and 3) upon realizing both of these things, I practically grieved the entire holiday season as I went into 2024. Let’s just say, this year was MUCH different, and I’m carrying these things with me into 2025!
Here’s how to survive the holidays as a small business owner!
1. Create Your Cozy Zone (A.K.A. Your Escape Room)
Step one: Find a space in your home where stress isn’t invited. This is your spot— whether it’s the corner of the couch or a full-on blanket fort. Clear the clutter, dim the lights, and set the mood with candles or soft music. Bonus points if you break out the essential oils (hello, lavender and eucalyptus).
Pro Tip: Put that phone on Do Not Disturb. Instagram will survive without you for a few hours.
Your cozy zone should scream “leave me alone, I’m relaxing.” No work allowed. No staring at email notifications. Just you, some fluffy pillows, and maybe a cup of something warm.
Choose Your Vibe:
Candlelit bath + classical music? ✔️
Blanket cocoon + cheesy rom-com? ✔️
PJs + podcast binge? ✔️
The goal is to create a space that feels like a mini-retreat—even if it’s just the far side of your living room.
2. Move a Little (But Not Like, Workout Move)
Your body’s been low-key holding onto all the tension from client calls, holiday prep, and that one email that made your eye twitch. Start the night with some gentle movement—think slow yoga, stretching, or whatever doesn’t feel like punishment.
10-15 minutes of shoulder rolls, neck stretches, and maybe a few deep breaths can do wonders. Don’t overthink it. This isn’t about burning calories—it’s about letting your body unclench.
Bonus Round: Try a 5-minute meditation at the end. Just sit, breathe, and pretend you’re somewhere tropical.
3. Spa Night at Home (Because You Deserve It)
Let’s face it—there’s something magical about taking extra time for a bath or long shower. Light some candles, throw in some Epsom salts, and let the bathroom transform into your personal spa.
No bath? No problem. Stand under a steaming shower until your brain clears and your muscles thank you. Follow it up with a quick skincare session—cleanse, exfoliate, and slap on that face mask you forgot you had.
Level Up: Turn on calming music, make the lights extra dim, and pretend you’re at a 5-star spa (minus the bill).
4. Indulge in Something Delicious (Snack Game = Strong)
Now for the fun part—snacks. This isn’t the night for sad celery sticks. Treat yourself to something indulgent but easy. Think hot chocolate with a peppermint twist, apple cider with cinnamon, or some fancy tea that makes you feel like you have your life together.
Pair it with dark chocolate, cheese, or even a mini charcuterie board (because adult Lunchables are the vibe).
Quick Recipe: Warm apple cider with a cinnamon stick = instant coziness.
5. Do Whatever Feeds Your Soul (No Work Allowed)
This is your moment to just be. Crack open that book you’ve been ignoring, binge-watch a feel-good show, or throw on a podcast that isn’t about productivity. If you love journaling, scribble down a few things you’re grateful for or wins from the week.
Not sure what to write? Try this:
What made me smile this week?
What am I proud of?
What’s one thing I’m excited about?
No pressure—just write whatever feels right.
6. Wind Down for Real (Not the Fake Kind)
As the night wraps up, ease yourself into bedtime mode. Do some light stretching, slap on some cozy lotion, and crawl into bed early for once. Cozy PJs are required. Let your mind drift as you tuck in, knowing you gave yourself the break you actually deserve.
Why This Matters (No, Really)
The holiday season (and life in general) can get chaotic fast. If you don’t make time to recharge, burnout is lurking right around the corner. Taking one night a week to press pause doesn’t just make you feel better—it keeps you sharp, present, and ready to handle whatever chaos the holidays (and clients) throw your way.
So, consider this your sign. Mark off one night a week, claim it as sacred, and make self-care non-negotiable. Your business, your family, and you will thank you for it. Now go grab a blanket and get cozy. ✨
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