The holidays: a time of joy, cheer, and relentless exhaustion. Every year, it starts with innocent intentions: a little decorating here, a few gifts there. But somehow, before you know it, you’re juggling a list of holiday responsibilities longer than Santa’s naughty-and-nice catalog. If the thought of December makes you want to schedule a PTO day just to survive, you’re not alone. Here’s why keeping up with holiday spirit feels like a full-time job (with no vacation days).

The Never-Ending To-Do List

It begins with the decorations. What was once a simple string of lights has transformed into a competitive neighborhood display, complete with synchronized music and inflatable reindeer. Inside, there’s a tree to trim, stockings to hang, and that one box of ornaments you’re convinced has vanished into another dimension. Oh, and don’t forget the annual ladder climb to hang lights—because nothing says holiday cheer like risking a sprained ankle.

Then comes the shopping. Online deals, in-store chaos, and the elusive “perfect gift” hunt. Remember when it was just a nice gesture? Now it’s a carefully curated expression of thoughtfulness, requiring hours of scrolling and comparing prices. By the end of it, you’re ready to gift everyone socks—and yourself a nap.

Holiday Hosting: The Unpaid Internship

If you’re hosting, congratulations! You’ve just signed up for the role of event planner, chef, and cleaner all rolled into one. The pressure to create the perfect holiday spread can make even the most seasoned hosts break out in a cold sweat. From creating a menu that satisfies everyone (yes, even your cousin who just went vegan) to orchestrating seating arrangements, hosting is less about joy and more about damage control.

And let’s not forget the pre-event cleaning spree. Your house hasn’t been this spotless since the last time you hosted, and it won’t be again until next year. After the party? You’re left with a mountain of dishes and a deep appreciation for disposable plates.

The Social Obligations

Holiday spirit isn’t just about what’s inside your home; it’s about showing up. Office parties, friends’ gatherings, and family reunions—each comes with its own set of expectations. You need outfits, small talk, and a game face to hide the fact that you’d rather be in pajamas binge-watching holiday movies.

For introverts, December can feel like a marathon. Even extroverts might find themselves wishing for just one evening to recharge. But no, the calendar’s packed, and skipping one event risks a social faux pas that could haunt you into the new year.

The Emotional Labor of Festivity

Let’s talk about the unspoken burden: maintaining cheer. You’re expected to spread joy, radiate positivity, and embody the spirit of the season. Even when the budget’s tight, the relatives are quarrelsome, and the Wi-Fi crashes during your streaming of Elf.

For parents, this means playing Santa with a straight face. For everyone else, it’s about avoiding that one family member’s passive-aggressive comments and deflecting questions about your life choices—all while maintaining a festive façade.

How to Clock Out (Just a Little)

If the holiday spirit feels like a job, it’s time to give yourself some perks. Here are a few ways to ease the load:

• Delegate Duties: Potluck-style dinners and shared decorating responsibilities aren’t just efficient—they’re sanity-saving.
• Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to the fifth holiday party invite or skip the lights competition this year.
• Remember the Point: The holidays are about connection and love, not perfection. Sometimes a simple “happy holidays” text is just as meaningful as a physical card.

The Bright Side of Holiday Hustle

Sure, the holiday spirit can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a time to create memories and traditions. Whether it’s the chaos of gift wrapping at midnight or the laughter shared over a slightly burnt pie, these moments are what make the season special. So while it might feel like a full-time job, at least this one pays in cookies and warm hugs.