Somewhere along the way, the holidays turned into a performance review — one where success is measured by how many presents are under the tree, how magical everything looks, and how much you managed to pull off.

And it’s exhausting.

In this final episode of my three-part holiday series, we’re pressing pause on the pressure to do more and coming back to what actually makes the holidays meaningful for kids: connection, calm, and presence.

Because despite what the ads suggest, children don’t need a mountain of gifts or a perfectly curated season. They need adults who are emotionally available, not overstimulated and stretched thin.

We’ll talk about how holiday guilt, work stress, and unrealistic expectations push parents to overcompensate — and why that often leads to more overwhelm for everyone involved. I’ll also share why kids remember moments of connection far more than toys, and how simplifying the season can actually make it more magical.

This episode is about letting go of the idea that you need to outperform the holidays… and choosing to show up instead.

Inside this episode, we explore:

• Why “holiday magic” has quietly turned into holiday pressure
• The difference between child-centered and child-overstimulated holidays
• How guilt and exhaustion drive over-gifting
• What kids truly remember about the holidays (hint: it’s not most of the presents)
• The science behind why presence matters more than consumption
• Simple ways to slow the pace and create meaningful connection
• How to prioritize a few low-stress traditions that actually feel good
• Ideas for experiences, shared gifts, and connection-focused moments
• Why a calm, present parent is one of the greatest gifts you can give

This episode will help you release the pressure to make the holidays perfect — and replace it with something far more powerful: genuine connection your kids will carry with them long after the season ends.

Because holiday magic isn’t created through buying more. It’s created in the moments when you’re truly there.

Your Next Steps:

Work with Me: https://www.dr-alise.com

Take the free Prior 10 Life Assessment: https://www.prior10.com

Connect on Social: https://www.instagram.com/dralisem

Want to get a snapshot of your own life in just minutes? Take the free Prior 10 Life Assessment at www.prior10.com/assessment.

The information contained and documents referenced in the podcast “Your Priority Centered Life” are for entertainment, educational and informational purposes only, and are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, professional medical or health treatment, diagnosis, or advice. We strongly encourage listeners to consult with medical providers or qualified mental health providers with issues and questions regarding any physical and/or mental health symptoms or concerns that they may have. Furthermore, the opinions and views expressed by podcast guests, partners and/or affiliates are not necessarily those of the podcast host. Dr. Alise Murray’s opinions and views are expressed in her individual capacity and are not to be construed as those of any of her podcast guests, partners and/or affiliates.