The Calm before the Shitshow
Do you ever get that feeling things seem a little too calm, like they could fall apart at any moment?
Yeah… me too. And it’s happening now.
The holiday family chats have already begun. The to-do lists, shopping lists, and pressure to make everything f#cking magical are piling up. It’s mid-November, but Christmas decor has been out since Halloween. That one neighbor already has their damn tree up, and your family is arguing about who’s hosting, what date works best, and every other detail.
It’s already starting to feel like a full-time job.
Before it all officially begins, pause.
Take a deep breath and remind yourself:
You don’t have to do it all.
It doesn’t have to be perfect.
You are allowed to rest.
The truth is, the holidays aren’t always a great time for everyone. You might be on a budget, grieving, feeling alone, or just not feeling it this year. You need to know that it’s okay. That’s why this calm is sacred, it’s your moment to set expectations before the chaos kicks in.
Take this time to slow down before the world speeds up. Make a list of what actually matters to you this season, not what looks good on Instagram, and not what makes Tia Karen happy. What truly and genuinely fills your cup?
Maybe that means skipping an event, saying no to overcommitting, or giving yourself permission to rest without guilt. Maybe it means skipping the family dinner to laugh and cry with your favorite cousin. Maybe it’s finally asking Tia Karen why she’s been mean to you all these years.
Whatever you need, this is your permission to take care of yourself and protect your peace.
Whether you wan to be that neighbor with decorations before Thanksgiving or you want to be the one with no decorations, this is your decision.
Peace isn’t found in a perfect holiday—it’s found in you showing up grounded, present, and genuinely yourself.
So light the candle, sit with your thoughts, and breathe. Breathe in joy, breathe out the extra bullshit.
This is the calm before the shitshow… and you deserve to enjoy it right now.
