5 Reasons NOT to Send Christmas Cards
I know what you’re thinking…That I’m a complete and utter Grinch for coming up with 5 Reasons Not to Send Holiday Cards. Or, you may quite possibly be giving me an invisible “high-five.” Several years ago, I posted on my personal Facebook page about “why I will not be sending Christmas cards this year,” and I was shocked at the response. I’m certainly not alone. People definitely seem to feel strongly about it one way or another. For some, sending Christmas cards is pure joy, and for others, it’s sheer stress. I get it. Part of me is torn, wanting to reciprocate. The other part of me, well…
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Here are five reasons NOT to send holiday cards this year:
1. You Don’t Experience Joy in the Process
I’m not necessarily the crafty type who loves taking and editing the perfect holiday photos, then finding the best app or online software, searching the gazillion designs, ordering the precious photo cards, then addressing those cards to my 50+ closest family and friends with my best glitter pens. Nope, I don’t fall into that camp. At least not right now. And to be totally honest, I’m a tad jealous at those who do, because I really love the idea of it.
Ever since I KonMari’d (organizing made easy) my closet, I ask myself if what I’m doing or what I possess brings me joy. Sending holiday cards simply does not qualify as joyful to me. But hey, that’s just me. I’ve realized that in order to say “yes” to less stress during the holidays, I had to say “no” to holiday cards. And that’s completely OK.
Now, several years later, as I become closer to being an empty nester, I may soon want to fill some of that void by reconnecting through Christmas cards. Time will tell so be sure that I have your address correct! 😉
For now, in this season of life, I’m good.
2. Just Say NO to Obligation
How many of us feel obligated to send cards? I know. I was one of them for many years. And here’s the truth. No one is legally or morally obligated to send those picture-perfect family holiday cards. I know that sometimes it feels like that, right? Even if Great Aunt Mary is severely disappointed, which she probably will be, that’s not your responsibility. As I help my coaching clients realize, we aren’t responsible for other people’s feelings. No matter what we do, someone is always going to agree and disagree. And truly, I feel bad for Great Aunt Mary since she probably isn’t on Facebook and wants to decorate her fridge with your card. So how about this option…
Why not just send one card with the kids’ school pictures slipped in? Perhaps you have a few family members who are not on social media, and you really want them to know you care and to see your growing kids. A great option is to send only those cards.
Seriously, though, we all have a lot to do in our daily lives, so if you don’t want to send a holiday card, then all I’m asking is that you turn inward and really listen to what your body is telling you (a.k.a. your inner guide). If it says, “I hate sending holiday cards,” Then please just don’t. Do what feels right for you and know that it can change from year to year.
Now, repeat after me 5 times: “I’m worthy, I’m loved, and I’m good enough.” Because you ARE. Holiday cards or not. ♥
3. Reclaim Your Time
Let’s say knitting or adult coloring books fill your heart with sheer joy. Just think of the time you get back and how you can spend it doing what you love instead. Really, it’s OK. Do what you love. Perhaps with all the stress during the holidays, you want and need to take a relaxing bath (or two or three), go to the gym, or take a walk outside. Then, do that instead!
Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying you should do only things for yourself this Christmas; it is the season of giving. However, self-care is foundational, and it’s important to prioritize yourself on your long to-do list (and I’m guessing it’s longer than Santa’s list at this point!).
Take the time for yourself to re-energize. Because when you do what you love, you will experience joy, and when you experience joy, you shine your light onto others.
We absolutely need more of that during the holidays!
4. Christmas (or insert holiday you celebrate) is Not Your Jam
Maybe this holiday just isn’t your thing, for whatever reason. Or, you really LOVE the idea of spreading more love on Valentine’s Day, as one of my friends does. Well, then, do what you love and send out these adorable Valentine’s Day cards instead! Imagine the fun surprise for friends and family who receive a non-traditional holiday card out of the blue.
With a married last name of Irish-Scottish descent, I considered sending St. Patrick’s Day cards inspired by my friend’s cute idea of sending Valentine’s Day cards. But then, guess what I realized? The idea brought me joy, but the act of gathering the supplies and sending the cards did not. So I don’t.
But if another holiday moves you, then absolutely go with it, and follow your joy.
5. You Tend to Overdo It
Setting boundaries for ourselves is not always easy. If you know you overextend yourself, and it doesn’t come naturally to have a completely organized set of holiday address labels, with accompanying stamps and those gel pens all ready to go, then perhaps this is the year to focus on something else.
For me, it was simply too much and always felt like an afterthought, which is the exact opposite of joy. If I send something to someone, I really want to be mindful of what I’m doing and do it from a place of love.
Maybe you prefer the digital route: it’s easy to pull up a thoughtful, cute photo on your phone, add a fitting digital sticker, send to your email list, and BAM! Holiday cards are done. Then, yes. Go for it, love! I admire you. Truly.
At the end of the day, do what feels right to you.
If sending cards fills you with love and joy, perfect!
If not, that’s OK too.
Who knows, maybe your spouse has beautiful penmanship or is the photo whiz. Great! Let them take a stab at it this year.
Just promise me this one thing–That you will take care of yourself during the busy holiday season because you are your number one VIP.
Does it bring you JOY or PAIN to send Holiday cards? Our readers want to hear your story below.
Peace, Love, Joy!
♥ Jennifer (and Biggie)
