As the calendar turns and we step into a new year, many people focus on resolutions: lose weight, be productive, get organized, and try harder. But as a therapist, I often see how resolutions can feel like pressure rather than support. They can highlight what we think we are not enough of, instead of honoring who we already are.

The holidays carry a lot of expectation. For some, this time of year brings warmth, connection, and familiar traditions. For others, it brings pressure: pressure to perform, host, give, show up, and feel “festive” even when life feels heavy, complicated, or overwhelming.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re supposed to love this season but internally feel exhausted or disconnected, you’re not doing it wrong. You’re being human.