Episode 68: Let Go of the Holiday “Shoulds” and Bring on the Joy

If the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s feel overwhelming, stressful, or heavy, you’re not alone. In this episode, Trisha shares five practical mindset tools to help you release holiday pressure, reset your expectations, and create a season you actually enjoy. Instead of chasing the “perfect” Christmas, this conversation invites you to shift your focus to what matters most: how you want to feel. Through personal stories, coaching insights, and gentle encouragement, Trisha helps you see that you can create your own joy, no matter what circumstances you’re navigating. This isn’t about doing more. It’s about thinking differently and finding freedom in the process. In this episode, you’ll hear:   Why so many holiday expectations come from old memories, old roles, or old stories • How to identify what you truly want to feel this season • Why waiting for others to create your joy never works (and what to do instead) • How to simplify your holiday tasks without guilt • Why “no” is sometimes the most loving answer • The freedom that comes from letting people be who they are • Real-life examples of navigating imperfect holidays with peace and gratitude The Five Tools You’ll Learn: Know what you want to create — especially the emotion you want most Create your own joy — stop outsourcing it to others Constrain your focus — be present instead of overwhelmed Just say no — expectations are not obligations Accept your people as they are — and enjoy them from that place A Reflection for You: What would your holiday feel like if you let go of the “shoulds,” the pressure, and the old expectations…and instead chose joy on purpose? This episode will help you take the first step. If this resonates… Be sure to follow Running to Myself so you never miss an episode.And if you know someone who needs a little relief and perspective this season, feel free to share it with them. You can find more about Trisha, her coaching, and ways to connect at trishastanton.com.