Don't Overfill Your Plate (this blog isn't about food)

You know that feeling after Thanksgiving dinner? Where you are just kinda miserable because you put too much on your plate? The holiday season is here and it can be easy to say yes to all the activities and fun events. Taking on too many responsibilities often starts with good intentions. You want to help, to contribute, to show up for the people and causes that matter to you. But when every “yes” comes at the expense of your own peace, something has to give.

Overloading yourself with responsibilities doesn’t make you more capable, it makes you more vulnerable to burnout. Your mental health thrives on balance, not on busyness. Overcommitment can lead to chronic stress, irritability, poor sleep, and even physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue. Mentally, it can create a sense of overwhelm and guilt when you start to realize you can’t give your best to everything. That’s when resentment and exhaustion can creep in, quietly eroding your joy and motivation.

Pay attention to how much you are putting on your plate. Create boundaries, prioritize the things that are most important and give yourself time to rest. 

Saying “no” can feel uncomfortable, especially if you’re used to being the dependable one. But healthy boundaries are an act of self-respect, not selfishness. They help you protect your time, energy, and mental well-being so you can be more present in the areas that truly matter.

Try asking yourself:

• Does this responsibility align with my priorities or values?

• Do I realistically have the time and energy for this right now?

• Am I saying yes out of genuine desire, or out of guilt or obligation?

Remember, you’re not letting people down by protecting your mental health; you’re ensuring that when you do show up, it’s with genuine energy and focus.

Prioritize your checklist by asking yourself questions like “what’s essential right now?” “can this wait until later?” and most importantly “what can I delegate or let go of?”

At the end of the day, you are more than your to-do list. Your worth isn’t defined by how much you are able to put on your plate at once. Taking care of yourself in all aspects: emotionally, mentally, and physically, is essential. We hope your holiday season is like a Thanksgiving meal, a little bit of everything followed by a well deserved nap!