The Gift of Presence: Finding Joy in the Little Moments This Holiday Season

Hey Friend,

As the holiday season kicks into full swing and Black Friday deals begin, it’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle. The to-do lists grow longer, and the pressure to make everything perfect can weigh heavy on our hearts. But what if we took a moment to pause? What if we gave ourselves the gift of presence this season—a gift that doesn’t cost a thing but can mean everything?

In a previous post, Savoring the Season: Financial Wellness and the Holidays, we explored how to approach holiday spending with intention and purpose, keeping our hearts and wallets aligned. If you’re diving into Black Friday shopping, I encourage you to revisit that post—it’s filled with tips to help you spend with clarity and keep both your heart and wallet aligned.

Amid the hustle of Black Friday and holiday planning, let’s take a moment to shift our focus inward, to the beauty of slowing down and finding joy in the little moments.

For me, this season isn’t just about traditions or gift-giving; it’s about cherishing the quiet moments that remind me of what truly matters—whether that’s a shared laugh with loved ones, the stillness of a winter morning, or the feeling of gratitude that washes over me as I reflect on the year.

Why Slowing Down Matters

The holidays are often described as "the most wonderful time of the year," but they can also feel overwhelming. Between the shopping, decorating, and social obligations, we can lose sight of the season’s deeper meaning.

When we rush through it all, we miss the magic that lies in the ordinary—the joy of baking cookies, writing heartfelt cards, or simply sitting by the fire making s'mores with my sweet son.

Slowing down doesn’t mean we’re neglecting our responsibilities. It means we’re making a conscious choice to be present for the moments that matter. And in doing so, we nurture a sense of peace and fulfillment that no wrapped gift could ever match.

Practical Ways to Embrace Presence This Holiday Season

Here are five simple ways you can focus on being present and reconnecting with yourself this holiday season:

1. Pause and Breathe: Practice Mindfulness
Take a few minutes each day to pause and notice the present moment. Focus on your breathing, the sounds around you, or the way your body feels. Mindfulness helps anchor us in the here and now, keeping the stress of holiday demands at bay.

2. Write It Down: Gratitude Journaling
Start or end your day by jotting down three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be big—sometimes it’s the little things, like the smell of fresh coffee or a kind word from a friend, that make the biggest difference. Journaling has helped me tremendously with understanding and organizing my thoughts.

3. Step Away: Unplug from Social Media
Give yourself permission to step away from the scroll. Last year, I took a 48-hour break during the busiest holiday week, and it gave me clarity I didn’t realize I needed. Dedicate time to be fully present with your loved ones—or with yourself. I do this at least three times a year, and every time, I’m amazed at the peace it brings.

4. Choose Quality: Focus on Meaningful Connections
Whether it’s time with loved ones, gift-giving, or holiday activities, prioritize meaningful connections and experiences over ticking boxes off a list. One genuine moment of connection can be far more fulfilling than a packed schedule.

5. Pour Into Yourself: Create a Self-Care Routine
Whether it’s a bubble bath, new skincare, a walk in nature, or simply lighting a candle and reading a book, set aside time to care for yourself. When you pour into yourself, you show up more fully for others.

Coming Home to Yourself

This season, coming home to yourself means choosing to slow down, reflect, and embrace the present moment. It’s about nurturing the joy that God has already placed within you and finding contentment in His blessings, even amid life’s busyness. The greatest gift you can give yourself is the permission to rest, reflect, and reconnect with the moments that truly matter.

Your Journey Awaits

As you move through this holiday season, remember that the most meaningful gifts often can’t be wrapped. They’re found in the laughter you share, the memories you make, and the moments you savor.

What small moment of joy will you savor today? I’d love to hear how you’re embracing presence in the comments. And if you’re looking for more ways to reconnect with yourself this season, subscribe to the Girl Finally newsletter for exclusive reflections and tips.

With so much love,
T 🌹