How to Do Less, But Better This Thanksgiving Week
As we fast approach Thanksgiving, many of us are caught up in the whirlwind of meal planning, shopping, and checking off endless to-do lists. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the desire for perfection and feeling like we need to do it all. But what if, instead of striving for more, we chose to do less—but better?
This Thanksgiving week, I encourage you to take a step back, embrace a mindset of simplicity, and focus on what truly matters: connection, gratitude, and presence.
Here’s how to make this Thanksgiving season more meaningful with less stress:
1. Adopt a “Less but Better” Mindset
The first step to simplifying is shifting our mindset. Instead of focusing on productivity, focus on presence. The holidays are about creating memories with loved ones, not about checking off endless tasks.
Shift from productivity to presence: Recognize that meaningful holidays are made through connection, not through completing a mile-long to-do list.
Give yourself permission to simplify: Let go of the things that don’t align with your values—whether that’s unnecessary traditions, over-scheduling, or perfectionism.
Align with your core values: Take a moment to reflect on what’s most important to you this holiday season. What values do you want to guide your decisions? For me, it’s always connection, gratitude, and joy.
2. Name What Matters Most This Week
What do you want to feel and experience this Thanksgiving? Defining what you want to create allows you to narrow your focus and prioritize the things that will bring the most meaning.
Cultivate gratitude: This could mean starting a gratitude journal, or simply taking a few moments each day to express what you’re grateful for.
Strengthen family connections: This might look like setting aside technology and spending quality time with your loved ones, engaging in meaningful conversations, and making memories.
Enjoy quiet moments of rest: It's easy to get caught up in the busyness, but don't forget to carve out time for yourself to recharge.
3. Simplify Without Losing Meaning
Let’s talk about strategy. Simplifying doesn’t mean sacrificing the special moments—it means making conscious choices to let go of what doesn’t serve the bigger picture.
Ruthless prioritization: Ask yourself, “What can I let go of to make space for what matters most?” For example, you might delegate tasks like cooking or cleaning or scale back on non-essential events.
Batch tasks: Group similar tasks together to save time—like preparing a few meals in one sitting or wrapping all gifts at once.
Limit decision-making: Keep things simple by sticking to a basic décor theme, or assign potluck items in advance to eliminate stress.
4. Cultivate an Environment of Connection
Your environment plays a big role in setting the tone for the holiday. Create a space that reflects the values you’re aiming to embody this season. Whether it’s setting the table with candles, playing calming music, or placing handwritten notes of gratitude, small details can elevate your experience without adding extra work.
5. Reflection Questions to Guide Your Week
As you plan your Thanksgiving, consider these reflection questions to help you stay focused on what matters:
What do I want most for ME this holiday season? What do I want my loved ones to remember about this Thanksgiving?
What can I let go of that doesn’t contribute to connection or gratitude?
How can I cultivate gratitude for myself and others this week?
Where can I create meaningful pauses to savor the season?
How can I embody the holiday spirit of simplicity, joy, and connection in my actions?
By being intentional about how we spend our time and energy, we can create a Thanksgiving week that feels fulfilling and truly reflects what matters most.
Join the Vibrant Humans Facebook Community
If you’re looking for support in living intentionally, simplifying your life, and prioritizing what truly matters, I’d love for you to join our Vibrant Humans Facebook group. It’s a space where we can continue the conversation and support each other in creating more balance, peace, and joy this holiday season—and beyond.
👉 Join the Vibrant Humans Facebook Group
Let’s commit to doing less, but doing it better this Thanksgiving. Wishing you a season of peace, connection, and gratitude.
