There are a lot of demands on us during the holidays. We can get so wrapped up in a pretty notion of what the holidays should be that we don’t pause to enjoy them…or to think about basic safety.
So, this year, consider a few holiday decorating tips that will help keep your sanity – and your home – in one piece.
Decorate only if you want to.
You know, you only have to decorate if you want to decorate.Not because an influencer told you to turn your home into Santa’s Workshop. Not because your judgy cousin Judy will side-eye comments about your ‘lack of spirit.’ Not because it’s December and it’s the thing to do. If no decorations fit your mood this year, that’s fine. Your house = your rules.
But if you decide to go out this year, make sure the cords are intact and have no evidence of fraying. A little precaution goes a long way in keeping the season stress-free.
Forget made-up ‘rules.’
Design trends, “best of” lists, and Pinterest-perfect rooms are suggestions — not requirements. If something makes you smile, it belongs. If something stresses you out or feels like a performance, skip it.
One rule you definitely should follow: one outlet = one multi-plug extension cord. No extension cord octopi coiled across the floor, overheating and putting too much stress on the outlet. Overloading an outlet may not seem like a bit deal, but it’s a dangerous practice.
Keep it simple and BIG.
If you are decorating and feel overwhelmed, simplify by limiting your color palette. Start with a color your home already uses well — a dominant hue already in your living room or kitchen — then add a neutral like white/silver/gold and one accent color. It’s a great way to avoid that moment when every décor bin gets emptied and your home suddenly looks like a craft explosion met a bargain bonanza.
When choosing décor items, bigger usually leads to more impact and less clutter. One beautiful, generous garland or one substantial wreath is more intentional than tiny figurines scattered everywhere.
The Go Big Bonus? Large pieces of décor tend to have just one cord, not eight, so that one well-made LED garland is both prettier and safer.
Limit the Socials.
Use inspiration platforms to generate options and browse for ideas — not to grade yourself.
The holidays are not an audition. They’re a season.
Health tip: Go ahead and scroll, but power down your devices at the same time you turn off your decorations for the night. Set a plug timer to automatically turn off your decorations and install a time limit on your devices. You’ll sleep better and wake up more refreshed.
Wishing you a wonderful – and restful – season.
