5 small things that make the holidays easier

Simple home prep that really helps

Dec 20, 2025

Hi friend,

The days leading up to the holidays are busy—but honestly, it’s the week after that usually gets me.

Routines are off, stuff is everywhere, and suddenly there are dozens (maybe hundreds!) of small decisions to make about where all the new things will live.

Over the years, I’ve learned that a little prep before the holidays can make a big difference in how the week after feels. Here are a few simple things you can do (or just think through) now to make next week feel more manageable.

1. Loosely decide where gifts will live

Before Christmas morning, take a few minutes to consider where new things will go. Which shelf will hold new books? Where will new toys live? Which drawers can absorb new clothes or beauty products? Making a few of these decisions now reduces your mental load when energy is low next week.

2. Make room for what you know is coming

Once you’ve thought about where gifts will live, look at the categories most likely to grow—clothes, toys, books, gadgets. Pick three and do a quick edit: toys that have been outgrown, books you haven’t reached for in a while, clothes that have seen better days. Even grabbing 3-5 items from each category will create a little breathing room for what’s coming in.

3. Contain the gift chaos

Set aside a box or basket for each family member to collect new gifts once they’ve been opened. This will keep your main living areas from feeling overrun and take the pressure off finding homes for everything right away.

4. Clear one high-traffic area

Choose one spot that’s become a catchall and clear it off. Maybe it’s the kitchen counter, dining table, or a wrapping station. One clear surface goes a long way in a busy season and gives you space for what really matters right now—wrapping gifts, cooking, hosting, or simply setting things down without feeling overwhelmed.

5. Keep up one simple daily reset

Choose one area to reset each day that will make the next morning feel easier. For me, it’s the kitchen and main living area. Upstairs can be messy—but even ten minutes spent clearing counters and tidying up downstairs before bed makes a noticeable difference in my mood and the start to the next day.

You don’t have to do all of this, but if one or two of these things can make next week feel easier and more enjoyable, it’s worth prioritizing.

For more ideas on simplifying the holidays, you might also enjoy these: