Take a breath, Let me de-influence you this Christmas
I have fallen for the “perfect aesthetic”, the number of gifts under the tree, the daily content, you name it. I always reminded my family that Christmas was about Jesus but I never lived it out. Not until the time I had barely enough money to get my kids at least 2 gifts each. I didn’t have the matching pajamas, or the perfect aesthetic while the rest of the world seemed to be celebrating Christmas big. With tons of lights and decor and a bunch of gifts under the tree. God taught me a lot during that season and I am grateful for it. We still had a beautiful Christmas morning, we still celebrated that Jesus came to earth so that we can spend eternity with Him, and in eternity none of these things will matter. #deinfluencing #christmas
Christmas often comes with pressures that can make the season feel overwhelming rather than joyful. One of the biggest traps we fall into is overbuying gifts, thinking more is better. However, joy does not multiply by quantity; in fact, having fewer but thoughtful presents can make the holiday more meaningful and less stressful. Remember the saying, "One's life is not in the abundance of possessions." Reflecting on this can help us shift focus away from material excess toward what truly matters. Matching pajamas and picture-perfect décor have become popular on social media, but these are not requirements for a happy Christmas. Before purchasing Christmas attire or decorations, ask yourself whether these things genuinely bring joy to your family or if they serve only to create content for others to admire. This self-awareness helps preserve your peace and prevents unnecessary spending. Content creators often showcase flawless holiday celebrations, but many videos and posts are sponsored or strategically planned. It's important to remember that they are not financial role models. Going into debt to replicate sponsored products or lifestyle trends only leads to stress. Instead, set realistic budgets and focus on traditions that reflect your family’s values. Comparison steals the real joy of Christmas. Your family's unique traditions and celebrations don't need validation from the internet. Embrace what feels authentic for you, and don’t be swayed by idealized versions portrayed online. Sometimes, stepping back from the pressure of daily content creation—like posting "Vlogmas" videos or constant updates—can reclaim your time and energy, allowing you to savor genuine moments without the added stress of editing and sharing. Most importantly, Christmas is a celebration of Jesus' birth and the hope it brings for eternity. This season can be a beautiful reminder of spiritual peace that transcends worldly distractions. By focusing on gratitude, faith, and meaningful connections, Christmas can be experienced with deep joy and calmness. Take heart in the message that a Savior was born to overcome the world, inviting us to live in light and peace. This Christmas, let’s choose to de-influence ourselves from commercial and social media pressures, embracing a simpler, more fulfilling holiday that centers on love, faith, and genuine happiness.
