Is Christmas really just over two weeks away? Part of me is feeling the most unprepared I’ve ever been for the festive season, but the other part is relishing in the slowness I’ve finally brought to this time of the year. I haven’t been anywhere near the high street, I’m carefully considering each purchase and I’ve managed to wrangle an entire ten days off work to actually relax over the holidays. I know so many of you are struggling with the same things I have over the past few years - how to balance Christmas shopping, decorating and socialising with an otherwise slow and sustainable lifestyle - so I thought I’d share some tips for how to keep things simple at this time of year.

MAKE A LIST, AND STICK TO IT

I have a list saved on the notes of my phone where I’ve jotted down the names of everyone I buy for, my budget for each person and what I plan on buying. I keep this list as small as possible and stop myself from going over my budget, even if I stumble across something incredible whilst shopping. I buy gifts specifically for their recipients, carefully considering what they might actually like and use, rather than picking up random presents that I then have to assign.

AVOID THE HIGH STREET AND SHOP SMALL

Whether you venture out to your local indie shops, get crafty, opt for experiences or take to Instagram for inspiration, try to avoid the high street at this time of year. Not only is it literal hell on Earth with crowds and queues, but it just isn’t a sustainable way to shop. Small boutiques will appreciate your custom much more and are more likely to stock ethically-sourced products.

MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF

Don’t be tempted to say yes to every single invitation that comes your way. Even if you’re an extrovert, make sure that you allocate time to yourself over the festive period. Allow yourself time to finish your Christmas shopping and wrap your gifts without feeling stressed that you have work to finish and parties to attend.

HAVE THE CHRISTMAS THAT YOU WANT

It’s not always possible to have the dream Christmas that you picture in your head, but make small decisions that will make your day more enjoyable and less stressful. That could mean spending the day in one house rather than rushing around trying to see everyone in one day, or deciding to cook dinner just for two rather than worrying about feeding your extended family. Say no to the things that stress you out and allow yourself to have a slower paced day.

BE YOURSELF

So many of us think we have to be something that we’re not at Christmas. If you’re an introvert, politely decline the party you’re dreading attending. If you hate dressing up, there’s nothing wrong with wearing jeans on Christmas Day. And if you like to keep your home simple and minimal all year round, don’t feel like you have to vomit decorations around it just because it’s Christmas.

GET OUT OF THE HOUSE

Staying cooped up inside all day with never-ending chocolates and festive TV shows might appeal to some people but it’s not how I like to spend my days. Even on Christmas Day, I need to head outdoors for a short stroll to soak up a little fresh air, stretch my legs and clear my head. Suggest a Christmas Day walk for your whole family, make an excuse such as taking the dog out or just slip away for ten minutes and enjoy the peacefulness of a short stroll around the block.

REMOVE THE PRESSURE

There’s so much pressure to have the best Christmas that it’s hard to step back and just accept that it’s just another day. If you manage to let go of that search for perfection, you will find it much easier to relax and actually enjoy yourself. Don’t worry about giving the gifts that everyone will love the most or cooking a five-course banquet - just concentrate on giving meaningful presents and serving food that you love to cook.

How to Have a Slow and Simple Christmas