December always arrives faster than we expect.

One moment it’s pumpkins and spice, and the next, Christmas lights are twinkling on every street, and our to-do lists start growing faster than our excitement. It’s easy to get swept up in the rush: the shopping, the decorating, the wrapping, the plans.

But before we dive into the busy, I want to pause and talk about what this season is really about.

Because Christmas, at its heart, is not just about finishing everything on time, it’s about making time for what matters most.

Faith

For many of us, this season begins and revolves around faith. It’s our constant reminder that light always finds its way into the world, even in the darkest of nights. It’s a time to remember the gift of grace and the quiet hope that anchors us when life feels uncertain.

You don’t have to be perfect to feel the presence of peace. Sometimes faith looks like a whispered prayer before bed, or a deep breath that says, “Thank You, Lord, for this moment.” Let your faith lead your plans this year and not your pressure to do it all.

Family and Friends

The holidays are about gathering, not just around a table, but around love. Whether your family is near or far, chosen or blood, this is the time to reach out, reconnect, and be present.
It’s about laughing in the kitchen, sharing old stories, and forgiving small hurts that don’t need to be carried into the new year. This year, give your family the gift of your presence and not just your presents.

Love

Love is the undercurrent of everything we do this season. It’s in the handwritten card, the warm hug, the late-night phone call, and even the quiet acts of kindness no one else sees. It’s love that turns a simple meal into a memory and a small gift into a treasure.

When love leads your giving, the size of the gift doesn’t matter it's the thought behind it does.

Community

Christmas reminds us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. And that joy multiplies when it’s shared. Our communities, the local shops, churches, neighbors, and friends are the threads that keep the season meaningful.

Supporting small businesses, volunteering, or simply checking in on someone who might feel forgotten brings light to those that need it most. This season let’s make generosity contagious.

Self-Care

And finally, take care of you. The holidays can be the most wonderful time but also exhausting. Between work, family, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to give until you're an empty cup. But you deserve rest, too. So, schedule it. Protect it.
Find small moments to breathe, write, pray, or just sit with your thoughts. You can’t pour joy into the season if you’re running on empty.

So, this year, let’s do more than just check boxes. Let’s make room for joy.

Here are 9 tips to help you stay organized while focusing on what is most important this time of year. 

1. Get in the Spirit by Setting the Mood

Before you tackle the tasks, create an atmosphere that helps you feel the season. Starting your checklist with a small ritual helps your mind shift from “overwhelmed” to “peaceful.”

*Light a holiday candle
*Put on your favorite Christmas playlist
*Make a cup of cocoa or have a glass of wine
*Pull out your planner or notepad
*Take a deep breath and let the good thought flow

2. Make Your Gift List (and Budget)

Start with who you’re buying for, but don’t skip the budget that is what keeps the season joyful, not stressful.

*List everyone you plan to give to
*Assign a spending limit per person
*Brainstorm meaningful (not just expensive) gift ideas
*Note any small businesses you want to support
*Check shipping deadlines

Create Lavender Tip: Think small but special. Items such as bookmarks, sticker sets, or notepads make heartfelt gifts that don’t break the bank.

3. Stock Up on Cards and Stationery

Nothing says “I’m thinking of you” like a handwritten holiday card.

*Choose designs that match your personality or values
*Write a short, heartfelt message (no pressure for perfection!)
*Keep extras for last-minute gifts or thank-you notes
*Buy stamps early

Try this: Write your cards while watching a Christmas movie. It’ll turn the task into a cozy ritual instead of a chore.

4. Shop Smart and DIY the Rest

*Support local makers at pop-ups or markets

*Shop Small Businesses in your local community. Even if you can’t buy everything from a small business your support still makes a huge impact.

*Handmade with Love is always appreciated, so use your skills to create special gifts for those you love.

*It’s okay to shop at big box brand stores. Especially, if they are having a sale and it will help you stay on budget.

5. Decorate Your Space Intentionally

You don’t need to cover every inch in glitter, because I know the sparkle is just so wonderfully exciting, however, often simple is just as beautiful.

*Put up your tree or wreath
*Add small touches like candles, garlands, or cozy throws
*Use what you already have. Reuse ribbon, gift wrap, or tags from past years. That is both creative and sustainable!

6. Plan Meals and Treats

Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish, plan ahead to save yourself from last-minute stress.

*Decide your menu early
*Make your grocery list now
*Prep baked goods or freeze-ahead meals
*Remember to include allergy-friendly options for guests

And don’t forget — holiday meals aren’t about perfection. They’re about connection. 

7. Schedule Rest & Reflection

In all the hustle and bustle, give yourself permission to pause.

*Block off one “nothing day” in December
*Journal or write down 5 things you’re grateful for
*Reflect on what went well this year and what you want to release

8. Acts of Kindness & Community

Holidays are brighter when we share the light.

*Donate gently used coats, toys, or books

*Smile at a stranger and wish them Merry Christmas

*Send a surprise card to a friend who’s been on your mind

*Leave an encouraging note in a public space

Even small gestures ripple outward, and kindness never goes out of season.

9. Plan for Next Year 

As the year wraps up, don’t rush into resolutions.

*Review your highlights and challenges from this year
*Write a letter to your future or your past self
*Start a “Vision Page” in your planner for 2026 goals
*Make space for rest between Christmas and New Year’s

You don’t need a new you in January, just a more present one.

The Christmas Planner Checklists (Printable!)

Download our Create Lavender Merry Christmas Checklists and More Printable featuring our fave Reindeer from our Reindeer Way Sticker Sheet. This packet includes the following pages:

1. December Budget

2. Christmas Gift List

3. Christmas Card List

4. Christmas Decorating List

5. Christmas Meal Planner 

6. Christmas Party Time

7. Christmas Bucket List 

8. Christmas BINGO

9. Letter to Santa Page

10. Christmas Notes Page

Stick it in your planner, put it in your purse, or keep it on your desk and check things off with a smile instead of stress.

Final Thoughts: A Season of Meaning

Let this be the year we celebrate more than things. Let’s celebrate faith that grounds us, family that holds us, love that grows in giving, community that connects us, and self-care that keeps us centered.

Because when those five things come together, Christmas becomes more than a date on the calendar, it becomes a season of peace.

From my Create Lavender desk to yours, I’m wishing you a calm, creative, and joy-filled holiday season.