Balancing Family and Business During the Holidays

For years, I spent my holidays working as a paramedic. I was the one responding to emergencies while others gathered with their families. It wasn’t a burden—I was single, my family was flexible about celebrating on other days, and I found purpose in helping others. But now, as a business owner, the holidays look very different.

One of the things I love most about running my own business is that I get to celebrate the holidays on the holiday. I can spend time with loved ones, unplug from work, and fully embrace the season. But let’s be real—it’s not always easy.

Unlike my old job, where I knew others were depending on me in the moment, my business feels like something I need to watch over constantly. It’s mine, and there’s this constant temptation to check an email or tweak a plan “real quick.” Letting go and keeping boundaries has been a huge growth area for me, and while I’ve gotten better at it, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel guilty at times.

But here’s the truth: At the end of my days, I won’t regret stepping away from my business for a few days. What I would regret is missing moments with my family and loved ones. Hopefully, I don’t have to tell you which one matters more.

If you’re an entrepreneur trying to balance family and business during the holidays, you’re not alone. It’s tough, but with a few strategies—and a mindset shift—you can create space for what truly matters without neglecting the work you care about.

1. Get Clear on What Really Matters

The holidays have a way of amplifying everything, and when everything feels urgent, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s most important. That’s why clarity is key.

Action Tip:

• Sit down and write two lists: one for your personal priorities (e.g., spending time with family) and one for your business goals.

• Pick your top three from each list and focus on those. Everything else? Delegate, simplify, or let it go.

Why This Works: When you know what matters most, you can focus your time and energy where it counts instead of getting pulled in a million directions.

2. Plan Ahead and Protect Your Time

Let’s face it—if you don’t plan ahead, work and family time will end up competing with each other. A little intentional scheduling can go a long way in creating balance.

Action Tip:

• Use time-blocking to schedule dedicated times for work, family, and personal rest.

• Stick to your schedule, and when it’s family time, put your phone and laptop away.

Pro Tip: Batch similar tasks together, like responding to emails or scheduling social media, so you’re not constantly switching gears.

3. Boundaries Are Your Best Friend

It’s tempting to say yes to everything—whether it’s a last-minute business task or an extra holiday event—but boundaries are what make balance possible.

Action Tip:

• Decide when you’re “off the clock” for work, and honor that boundary.

• Communicate with clients and colleagues ahead of time to let them know your availability during the holidays.

Why This Works: Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out—they’re about making space for what matters most.

4. Simplify to Create Space

The holidays come with a lot of extras—extra tasks, extra events, extra pressure. Simplifying can help you create the space you need to enjoy both family and business.

Action Tip:

• Automate or outsource routine business tasks like scheduling or invoicing.

• Share holiday responsibilities with family—let others help with decorating, cooking, or shopping.

Pro Tip: Simplifying isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about making room for what matters.

5. Let Go of Perfection

Here’s the thing: chasing perfection, whether in your business or your holiday plans, is a recipe for stress. Instead of aiming for perfection, aim for presence.

Action Tip:

• Give yourself permission to let some things be “good enough.”

• Focus on the moments—whether it’s a holiday meal or a breakthrough in your business—that bring you joy.

Why This Works: When you let go of perfection, you free yourself to actually enjoy the season.

Where Brainspotting Therapy Comes In

Even with these strategies, the emotional pull between family and business can be tough. Feelings like guilt, overwhelm, or frustration can still creep in, making it harder to stay balanced. That’s where Brainspotting Therapy comes in.

Brainspotting can help you process and release the emotional patterns that keep you stuck, so you can:

• Let go of guilt and set boundaries with confidence.

• Stay present in the moments that matter.

• Build emotional resilience to handle the holiday chaos.

While action steps are important, Brainspotting gives you the clarity and calm to actually follow through with them.

Holiday Balance Is Possible

Balancing family and business during the holidays isn’t about achieving perfect harmony—it’s about making intentional choices that align with your values. With a clear plan, strong boundaries, and the ability to let go of guilt, you can create space for what truly matters this season.

If you’re ready to shift your mindset and navigate the holidays with calm and confidence, let’s talk. Schedule your free 30-minute Beyond Mindset Breakthrough Session today, and let’s create a plan that works for you.

At the end of your days, what will you look back on and cherish? The answer is probably clear—and this holiday season, you have the opportunity to honor it.

You’ve got this. Let’s make it a season to remember.