Not Feeling the Holiday Spirit?
It’s a different kind of December
I’ve been hearing the same thing everywhere lately.
People really aren’t in the mood for the holidays this year.
And on some days, I find myself saying the same thing. Tossing my to-do list aside in favor of a cozy nap by the fireplace, or lingering in bed just a little longer to slow the day down.
But I realized something interesting.
Even with all this slowing down, a lot of us aren’t actually coming back from breaks feeling rested.
We pause only when our bodies force us to — when exhaustion catches up — but the rest is short-lived. Incomplete.
So the cycle repeats, and we end up constantly chasing tired.
Have you felt that way lately?
It’s probably not just one thing. It feels like a blend of economics, politics, finances, and missing people we wish were closer (or here) this time of year. All of it adds up.
So this post isn’t meant to convince you to get into the holiday spirit — although there are a few gentle ways to ease into it later on, if that’s what you want.
More than anything, this is permission.
Permission for December to look different this year. Permission to give your mind and body what they’re actually asking for.
And a reminder that even a quieter, slower season can still be beautiful in its own way.
Make Room For The Lulls
One thing I come back to often — especially this time of year — is the heart of why I started Ambyr Things in the first place.
It’s about helping people — like YOU, move toward the life you dream of.
But too often, we imagine that journey as a series of highlights only.
The wins.
The clarity.
The “after.”
Real life doesn’t work that way, friend.
It looks a lot more like an EKG reading — peaks, pits, and the steady valleys in between.
And all of it matters.
So if December feels a little off for you, you’re not imagining it.
It feels that way for me too.
And for at least twenty other people I’ve talked to in the last week.
This collective feeling isn’t our personal failure — it’s information…
A reminder that every season doesn’t need to be a high point.
And that we aren’t meant to hustle or push past our limits all the time.
Including at the end of a year that has already asked a lot.
Wherever You’re At Right Now
Before you go, I want to leave you with this: you don’t need to decide how you’re supposed to feel this season. You’re allowed to meet December exactly where you are and move in the direction that feels right today.
If you’re feeling a little spark and want help easing into the holiday mood, here are some things you might enjoy:
My Holiday Catalogue — a cozy collection meant to inspire without overwhelming. Bonus points if you listen to the playlist while you browse.
My Puppy Chow tutorial — something simple you can make with your hands when your body wants comfort more than productivity. (And this takes all of 10 minutes but it’s sooo good! Comment/DM with any questions!)
My Christmas Gift Guide — 12 thoughtful gift ideas under $50, curated with comfort and ease in mind.
But, in case your body is asking you to slow down and linger a bit longer, that’s okay too. I think you might enjoy:
Scrolling my Instagram and getting lost in a feed that asks nothing of you but is curated with love, joy, and intention.
Reading 10 Ways to Relieve Stress and Anxiety for something grounding and gentle. Because life be lifeing 😳.
Or if things feel extra heavy and you just need to feel seen, come read this letter I wrote for you and let the heaviness soften.
There’s no wrong choice here — only what feels right for you in this moment.
Wishing you a December that unfolds gently, in its own way. 🤍
With Love,
Ambyr
