Christmas stress hit me hard this week.

I was sitting at my desk after hours of non-stop work when it dawned on me: Christmas Eve is less than an week away.

My brain went into overdrive. So much to do. So many obligations. How am I this far behind?

I imagined the chaos—rushing to clean the house, prepare meals, and meet commitments I’d promised without thinking.

Sound familiar?

We romanticize the holidays—lights, calm evenings, and joy. But in reality, we’re sprinting through the season.

Here’s how I’m learning to slow down, reclaim calm, and actually enjoy Christmas this year:

☑ Start with a list.

↳ Write down everything you’ve committed to.

↳ Ask: “What can I cut, postpone, or simplify?”

↳ Overcommitting helps no one—not you, not them.

☑ Create 15-minute calm moments.

↳ Light a candle. Sit in silence. Breathe.

↳ Dedicate this time to slowing down.

↳ Say, “This moment is for me and for God.”

☑ Simplify social obligations.

↳ Perfect meals? Spotless homes? Not necessary.

↳ People value your presence over perfection.

↳ Be available, not overwhelmed.

☑ Move at a human pace.

↳ Deliberately walk slower. Talk slower. Think slower.

↳ Recognize when you’re rushing and pause.

☑ Make room for God at Christmas.

↳ Attend a church service.

↳ Arrive super early and take time to slow down.

↳ Let go of all stress, take a deep breath and open your heart.

☑ React to stress with calm.

↳ Stress is contagious. Calm is, too.

↳ Choose to smile, breathe, and move forward deliberately.

The goal isn’t a stress-free life. It’s you learning to move through it differently.

Christmas isn’t a performance. It’s an invitation to slow down, unburden yourself, and make space for joy.

In this week's episode of my podcast 'The Walk', I share how I am trying to implement these tips.

What’s one small way you’ll slow down this Christmas?

A couple of weeks ago, I found myself standing on the windswept Cliffs of Moher in Ireland.

During the bus ride, I had been listening to an audiobook about the life of Saint Patrick, and I was surprised to learn how dreams had played a significant role in his decision to return to Ireland. Those dreams changed the course of history.

Like many other saints that lived in Ireland, Patrick changed the world with nothing but faith and determination. I kept asking myself: How did he do it? No armies, no wealth—just stories and dreams.

That question stayed with me, and now it’s shaping how I approach my own work and goals.

Most people set goals, but many miss the deeper step: dreaming big. What if achieving your ambitions started with rediscovering your dreams?

Maybe this is why Saint Patrick made the most important decisions in his life after reflecting on the dreams he had at night.

In this episode of my podcast 'The Walk', I share how storytelling and dreaming transform how we connect with others—and ourselves.

☑ Why I traveled to Ireland for answers:
↳ The secret behind how ancient saints inspired entire nations.
↳ What their stories teach us about courage and purpose.
↳ Why their methods remain shockingly relevant today.

☑ The power of storytelling in your goals:
↳ How stories make your message unforgettable.
↳ Why data alone won’t inspire action.
↳ How I’m using storytelling to bring faith alive in a modern world.

☑ Why writing dreams down changes everything:
↳ A simple exercise to uncover what truly drives you.
↳ How visualizing your goals keeps you on track daily.
↳ Why combining prayer and planning creates unstoppable momentum.

This isn’t just about storytelling or faith—it’s about finding the "why" behind what you do. If you’ve felt stuck or uninspired lately, this episode is for you.

What’s one dream you’re ready to write down and pursue?

In this episode of The Walk, I take you along as I reflect on a small but meaningful change in my life: transforming an old coatroom into a cozy winter office.

This tiny space has become my retreat, a place to focus and create without distractions.

But the process of clearing out the clutter wasn’t just about tidying up—it became a lesson in making room for what’s really important, both in my home and in my life.

As Advent begins, I share how this season invites us to do the same: to simplify, refocus, and create space for the things that truly matter.

From letting go of distractions to carving out time for creativity, prayer, or meaningful connections, I hope this episode encourages you to look at how you can find clarity and purpose during this special time of year.

And who knows? Maybe it will inspire you to tackle a little project of your own.

Fr. Roderick

P.S. Join my online community, support my work and get access to my weekly Premium Podcast by going to https://fatherroderick.com/join

I'll admit it - I'm a bit of a digital hoarder. My internet browser is like a virtual junk drawer, with tabs upon tabs open at any given time. Why do I insist on keeping so many tabs open, even when they're just cluttering up my computer and slowing everything down? It's not just the browser either - I used to have bookshelves overflowing with tomes from my university days, and a closet full of memorabilia from my travels. Maybe it all comes down to this deep-seated fear of losing information, ideas, and memories. As the years go by, it's like I'm trying to hold onto every little thing, terrified that if I let go, I'll forget or miss out on something important. But is that really the healthiest approach? In this episode of my podcast 'The Walk', I dive into the bittersweet process of aging - the physical changes, the nostalgia, and the challenge of learning to let go. It's not all doom and gloom, though. I also explore the benefits of embracing each stage of life, and how a little gratitude can go a long way in reframing the experience of getting older. So if you, like me, find yourself drowning in a sea of open tabs and half-forgotten keepsakes, give this episode a listen. You might just find some wisdom and humor to help you navigate the journey of growing older (and wiser). After all, as they say, with age comes...well, a lot of stuff. But also the opportunity to reflect, appreciate, and move forward in a meaningful way.

In this episode of The Walk, I share with you a conversation I had with someone who was wondering what the point is of reading books when you probably have no time of life left to do anything with the knowledge you gain?

And what's the point of reading altogether?

I share why I try to read 150 books this year, how I manage to read so many books and how the reading process affects me on various important levels.

Check out my book reading challenge here: https://www.goodreads.com/user_challenges/50362078

👉 Join my online community, support my work and get access to my weekly Premium podcast here: https://fatherroderick.com/join

Ever notice how some days the hum of a leaf blower or other background noise can be more aggravating than others? I explore how my own tolerance for these everyday sounds can fluctuate, and how it reflects my level of sensory regulation (or disregulation and overload).

The Impact of Overstimulation

In a world filled with constant distractions, it’s easy to find ourselves overstimulated, which can lead to irritability and stress.

Growing up, I was taught to be productive every moment, a habit that led to my own state of chronic overstimulation.

During my recent trip to Ireland, I experienced this firsthand as I adapted to new surroundings daily. Even sleeping in hostels brought sensory overload, with unfamiliar sounds, background music and social interaction.

Finding Relief Through Decompression Techniques

Coming home, I focused on winding down through sensory decompression techniques. Noise-canceling headphones, calming music, and scheduled time to reset became essential.

I also found that the Pomodoro Technique, paired with realistic prioritization, helps me manage my tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

Calming Activities: Audiobooks and Low-Effort Gaming

Reading is another outlet—particularly audiobooks, which I listen to at different speeds based on what I need. I also turned to cosy, low-effort videogames, which have become valuable ways to unwind without guilt. I've learned how much relaxation is crucial for mental well-being.

The Power of Social Connection

Although I’m more introverted, being around others—even without active interaction—brings a sense of calm. My running group has been a great help in maintaining that balance.

Rational vs Irrational Thoughts

I share some ideas from a particularly insightful book I read this weekend (check out my Goodreads review). I realized how I've already been applying the method described in this book for a while now, which helped me work through strong emotional reactions and catastrophizing thoughts and replace them with rational perspectives. This shift has had a profound impact on managing emotional overwhelm and staying grounded.

I hope that by sharing these experiences and the methods that helped me, this episode can help you reclaim calm amid life’s noise as well.

After a month-long hiatus, I'm back with a new episode of The Walk! During my time away, I traveled to Ireland to explore the rich Catholic tradition and the influence of the early Celtic saints.

This trip was also a personal quest for me, as I normally like to have everything planned out. But this time, I decided to let go of my fear and just dive in, and I'm so glad I did.

The time away gave me a chance to reflect on the direction of my two public podcasts - The Walk and The Break.

For The Walk, I plan to keep the same format of taking listeners on a walk with me and discussing life's challenges and how faith can help guide us.

For The Break, I'm rebranding it as "Geek Priest" to better align with my love of movies, TV, and all things geeky. I'm also going to focus each episode on a specific topic that I'm passionate about, and add some random topics in the second half of the show.

One of the stories I want to share with you today is about the monastic site of Glendalough in Ireland. This place, founded by St. Kevin in the 5th century, endured many hardships over the centuries, including Viking raids and political upheaval.

But through it all, the main tower at Glendalough has remained standing as a symbol of God's enduring presence and the resilience of faith.

It's a powerful reminder that no matter what challenges we face, or how anxious we sometimes feel, God will never abandon us.

Get early access to my video course on the Celtic Saints by supporting my work with a donation: https://fatherroderick.com/celticsaints

I'm embarking on an exciting journey to Ireland to delve into the lives and wisdom of the men and women who played a crucial role in the evangelization of Europe.

By signing up for my new course, you can join me on this adventure!

In this course, I'll reveal how the teachings of these Celtic saints can enrich your personal life, deepen your faith, and help you find balance and inner peace.

I tell you all about it in this new episode of The Walk.

Don't miss out—my journey begins this week, and I'd love for you to be part of it!

Sign up and learn more about the course at fatherroderick.com/celticsaints

In this episode, I talk about the paralyzing effect of self-limiting thoughts and how they can hold us back from achieving our dreams.

Whether you're starting a new career, launching a creative project, or just stepping out of your comfort zone, those inner doubts can be overwhelming.

I share personal stories from my journey as a priest and coach and I offer practical advice on how to push past the fear and take that first step.

Key Takeaways:

Quote of the Episode:

"I think I can do this because I’ve never done it before." — Pippi Longstocking

Links:

Subscribe & Review:

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

I just finished writing and publishing my newest book, "Tales of Power - A Guide to Epic Storytelling".

In this episode of The Walk, I share with you a behind the scenes look at my creative process.

The book is a journey into the art of storytelling, inspired by the timeless works of J.R.R. Tolkien. It delves into the transformative power of narrative, teaching you how to weave your messages into compelling stories that captivate and engage.

Through my unique storytelling method, you'll learn to craft narratives that hold your audience's attention from beginning to end.

The book is rich with over 150 short stories and story prompts, offering a treasure trove of inspiration for your own storytelling endeavors.

Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or just beginning, "Tales of Power" provides the tools and insights to elevate your communication through the magic of epic storytelling.

Keep an eye on my newsletter for information on how you can get a copy of the book!

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