Feeling Stretched? Small Steps to Support You This Busy Season
By Erin House & Tracey Ropp
Finding Calm During a Hectic December
As the year winds down, December can feel like a whirlwind. Between work deadlines, end-of-year projects, exams, social commitments, and holiday preparations, it’s easy to feel stretched thin.
Many people think, “I just need to get through this month.” But even in the busiest weeks, small moments of reset can help you stay grounded, maintain focus, and protect your energy. You don’t have to wait for the holidays to take care of yourself — a few thoughtful adjustments now can make a meaningful difference.
Why Small Resets Matter
The end of the year often brings pressure to finish strong while keeping up with everything else. Big changes or major overhauls aren’t realistic when your schedule is already full.
Small, intentional adjustments give you breathing room, support well-being, and help you navigate December with more calm and control. Even modest shifts — practiced consistently — add up over time.
Simple Year-End Resets to Try
Here are practical ways to create small, manageable pauses without adding pressure:
Lightly Refresh Your Systems
Review your calendar and remove tasks that aren’t essential
Tidy one space: your desk, your bag, or digital files
Even clearing a single area can reduce mental clutter and create a sense of calm.
Reflect on One Win and One Wish
What went well this year? Recognize effort, growth, or a moment you’re proud of
What would you like to carry forward or adjust? Focus on one area to nurture
This reflection helps you finish the year with self-awareness rather than self-criticism.
Set a Gentle Intention for the Season
Think about what you truly need in the coming weeks. Your intention might be:
“Protect quiet time”
“Say no when my plate is full”
“Be present at social events”
“Prioritize rest”
A simple intention can guide your choices without creating extra pressure.
Take Micro-Breaks for Mental Energy
Even 2–5 minutes of deep breathing, stretching, or stepping outside can recharge your mind and reduce stress. Micro-breaks are especially helpful during back-to-back meetings, long study sessions, or end-of-year projects.
Curate a “Reset Playlist”
Music can help shift your energy or mood quickly. A short playlist of calming or uplifting songs can be your mini reset between tasks or after a hectic morning.
Limit Digital Overload
Constant notifications and social media scrolling can drain energy. Try:
Scheduling phone-free blocks
Silencing non-essential notifications
Checking emails or messages at set times instead of constantly
Prioritize, Don’t Perfect
During busy weeks, perfectionism can amplify stress. Focus on completing tasks well enough rather than perfectly. Choose one or two top priorities each day and let smaller items slide if needed.
Anchor Your Day with Small Rituals
Simple rituals can bring calm and stability. Examples include:
A mindful cup of tea or coffee in the morning
A short evening reflection or gratitude practice
A quick tidy-up before starting work or studying
Respect Your Sleep and Energy
Even in a hectic month, consistent rest is essential. Try:
Keeping a regular bedtime, even if your wake-up time shifts
Limiting screens in the bedroom
Practicing short wind-down routines instead of long ones
The Value of a Thoughtful Pause
December can feel like a constant race, but even brief pauses help you notice what’s needed most. Small resets can reduce stress, protect your energy, and support focus, making it easier to handle deadlines, exams, social events, and end-of-year projects without feeling overwhelmed.
If you’d like support building routines or finding space for mindful growth during this hectic season, we’d be happy to work with you. Our private practices can help you develop practical skills that support well-being, focus, and balance. Contact us here.
The ideas shared in this post are for general reflection and informational purposes. Everyone’s needs are different, and this content isn’t meant to replace personalized or professional support. If you’d benefit from one-on-one guidance, consider reaching out to us, or another qualified professional. In our independent private practices we offer counselling and psychotherapy virtually to individuals living in Ontario, Canada.