Holiday Boundaries That Work: A Simple Plan for a Peaceful Holiday Season

Feeling like the Grinch this year? Same. In this episode, Lynsey shares why the holiday spirit can feel harder during transition seasons, like the first Christmas when your adult kids are building traditions in their own homes. You will learn the Minimum Viable Holiday framework, a simple way to protect your peace, set realistic boundaries, and still create meaningful moments without burning out.

You will walk away with a practical three-step plan: choose your holiday values, set two non-negotiables, and pick one “show up moment” you will do fully. Plus, Lynsey shares a powerful ornament tradition that brings the season back to what matters most: connection, memories, and meaning.

What you will learn

• Why holiday blah feelings do not mean you are ungrateful
• How to create a Minimum Viable Holiday that is meaningful but not exhausting
• The 3-step framework: values, non-negotiables, and one show up moment
• Simple boundary scripts you can use with family and friends
• How to honor change when your kids are grown and your traditions are evolving

Reflection questions

• What is changing in your holiday season this year?
• What three values do you want to guide your December?
• What two non-negotiables will protect your energy and peace?
• What is your one show up moment that you will do fully present?

Scripts you can borrow

• “This year we’re keeping things simple. Here’s what we are doing.”
• “We can be there from 2 to 4, and we’re really looking forward to it.”
• “I love you, and I’m not available for that this year.”
• “I hear you, and this is what works for us this year.”

Connect with Lynsey:

• Website: LynseyMulder.com
• Facebook: @LynseySMulder
• LinkedIn: @Lynsey-Mulder
• Instagram: @LynseyMulder

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Know someone who is one Target run away from becoming the Grinch? Send them this episode.