5 Ways to Overcome Holiday Perfectionism

Sophia Epitropoulos
Dec 17, 2015

‘Tis the season for all things joyful: the intoxicating smell of freshly baked goodies, the bright and shiny decorations crafted by the best DIY-er (you, of course) and the pleasant comfort of friends and family. But if you consider yourself a perfectionist, or the holidays bring out your perfectionism, you might not be feeling so holly jolly. We tapped Dr. Michael Brustein, PsyD., for insight on how the control-lovers among us (#guilty) can enjoy this time of year.

Holiday Tips for Perfectionists

1. Stay organized, but don’t overdo it. Staying organized is a great trait to have, but when you schedule yourself with back-to-back events with little room to spare, you’re bound to run into trouble. Go ahead and keep your lists of tasks, but don’t be afraid to assign a responsibility or two to someone else — they can handle it!

2. Stop over-thinking everything. According to Dr. Michael Brustein, socially oriented perfectionists over-stress about getting the perfect gift for their friends and the “anxiety of finding the perfect gift can leave them feeling anxious and resentful.” Instead of stressing, remember that no matter what you choose, your loved ones will appreciate the thought that went into it.

3. Stick to simple. Sure, it’s the holidays and you want everyone to be happy, but the more you try to please everyone, the more likely you are be disappointed when things don’t pan out exactly how you want them to. Take a break from RSVPing to EVERY event and make sure to build in some much-needed time for recharging. Your friends will understand.

4. Try something new. Instead of worrying about whether traditions are done perfectly, try experimenting with new holiday traditions. It can be as simple as trying new sugar cookie recipes or decorating methods. Whatever you choose, focus on how you’re challenging yourself, and celebrate your accomplishments.

5. Take time to think positively. Okay, so the sugar cookies may have tasted a little salty and your sibs didn’t commit to the color theme that you planned for family photos, but that’s not what the holidays are about. Rather than exerting your energy on getting annoyed, spend some time reflecting on gratitude. Staying positive will make your overall experience so much better.

For more holiday tips and advice, follow us on Pinterest and check out our awesome holiday-inspired board!

(Photo via Getty)

Um, Jude Law & Nancy Meyers Just Teased 'The Holiday 2'

It's The Holiday season — which means it's time to fangirl over Jude Law again. (Although some would argue it's always time to fangirl over Jude Law). His character Graham is a total heartthrob, as well as Iris' (Kate Winslet) big brother, but he's also a single dad to two daughters, which is where he's most swoon worthy, IMO. And the internet agrees that showing Amanda (Cameron Diaz) his dinner party alter ego Mr. Napkin Head is one of the best moments of the film. So it's safe to say that when he recreated the scene with director Nancy Meyers, the internet lost its mind.

Check out the video of Jude Law & director Nancy Meyers recreating Mr. Napkin Head from The Holiday — and teasing a potential The Holiday 2.

Jude Law & Nancy Meyers recreate Mr. Napkin Head.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nancy Meyers (@nmeyers)

Jude Law and Nancy Meyers reunited on Thursday December 12 to celebrate Jude getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. "Congrats Jude! ⭐️" Nancy said on Instagram. "I was thrilled to be at a lunch for Jude today and I had one question for him…."

While filming Jude from the other side of the table, an off-camera Nancy says, "It’s so great to see you. I don’t think I’ve seen you since we wrapped up The Holiday. Speaking of which. I’ve seen you interviewed a lot, and they keep asking you if there’s going to be a sequel, what do you think?”

In lieu of a verbal answer, Jude grabs a napkin and glasses and transforms into Mr. Napkin Head. That's not a no, Jude!!! Is this a hint that we'll see Graham again? "For the love of god, please give us a sequel 😩😩😩😩 we are dying without a new Nancy Meyers movie!!!" one user commented, while another says, "We desperately need you back in the director’s chair making another movie."

Jude Law has also revealed he's "love" to do a 'The Holiday 2'!

Jude has said in the past that the possibility for a potential sequel rests with Nancy, so the fact she's playing into the hype definitely gives me hope. “I’d love to see where they’re at,” Jude says on Today. “I’m a yes. You need to check in with everyone else...I'll ask Kate."

“I think Graham still has cardigans and glasses, and reads,” he adds in an interview with E! News. “He’s probably worried sick 'bout the girls, right? The daughters will be 28, 29.”

And in addition to teasing The Holiday 2, Jude Law also recently went viral for revealing The Holiday movie cottage doesn't actually exist — and breaking thousands of hearts in the process!

"So [Nancy Meyers], she's a bit of a perfectionist," he told BBC Radio. "She toured that whole area and didn't quite find the chocolate box cottage she's looking for...She just [rented] a field, and drew it and had someone build it."

But while the outside of the cottage looks like the perfect London Christmas card, the inside was, well...empty. "So here's the funny thing, if you watch it...We were shooting in the winter here," he continues. "And every time I'd go in that door, we'd cut, and we shot the interiors in L.A. about three months later...Just burst the bubble. Sorry!"

How do you feel about a potential The Holiday 2 in the era of sequels? Want more behind the scenes facts on the movie? Read up on Kate Winslet Still Goes By This Nickname Jack Black Gave Her During The Holiday!

celebritypop cultureentertainmentmovies

This Two-Ingredient Snack From Publix Is The “Bougie” Holiday Appetizer You Need To Try

Since moving from downtown Atlanta, I've been sad about not having a convenient commute to Whole Foods or Trader Joe's anymore. To circumvent my lack of access to them, I've been making frequent trips to Publix. It's been one of my go-to grocery stores lately because it has some of the freshest produce and incredible deli selections I've tasted.

Whether my fiancé and I are looking for inexpensive parmesan cheese or pasta salad that doesn't skimp on quality, Publix truly has everything we need! But, I've recently discovered the most amazing appetizer that cost me less than $15 — and I can't wait to share it with everyone who may not have the patience (or know how) to make a delicious charcuterie board yet. With just two ingredients, you can make an easy holiday appetizer that's totally giving bougie! Here's how!

Here's the inexpensive, luxe appetizer from Publix that'll fill your fancy snack needs!

Jasmine Williams

1. Firehook Baked Crackers

My childhood was filled with eating saltine crackers with soup whether I had a viral cold or upset stomach, but I've been looking for something that feels elevated. The problem is that I can be picky about the taste and texture of what I eat. But surprisingly these Firehook Baked Crackers have passed both tests!

They're super crisp and don't have an overwhelming sea salt taste, which makes my taste buds happy. They're also sturdy unlike some flimsy snacks I've tried. This is important because I knew I wanted to pair them with a tasty dip or spread. I just didn't know which until I took a chance on a new brand.

P.S. It does contain wheat, so steer clear if you're allergic to it!

Jasmine Williams

2. Alouette Garlic & Herbs, Soft Spreadable

This soft spreadable has all the makings of what I imagine bliss to taste like. I know you're thinking, "But it's garlic & herbs," — but this is what my uninterrupted staycation desires consist of! It's flavorful, yet somehow manages to remain lightweight...which is honestly rare with spreads. However, this gluten-free option will make you see stars.

A Tasty Two-Ingredient Luxe Appetizer 

Jasmine Williams

Okay, don't judge me...I had to dig in before I snapped a pic. Sorry, but my camera doesn't eat first!

In short, I stand by this quick and inexpensive luxe appetizer from Publix. It's helping me to remember to eat when I'm in the thick of working and caring for a busy toddler. It doesn't require a ton of prep time either. In less than two minutes you'll be tasting a delicious blend of sea salt, garlic, and herbs!

If you're hosting this holiday season, you can delicately arrange this duo on a tray, with the garlic spread dolloped in the middle and the crackers beautifully fanning out around it. However, this is my preferred method of eating it: getting the crackers and dip on my plate as quickly as possible so I can eat it even faster.

Happy snacking!

Follow us on Pinterest for more fun appetizer ideas!

grocery hacksappetizersnack ideasfood

42 Self-Care Finds to Upgrade Your Winter Wellness Routine

Don't forget to look out for yourself. If you're looking to upgrade your self-care ritual, these 42 finds are sure to jumpstart your winter wellness routine. From supplements to skincare to things around the house that are designed to make your life just a little bit easier, these finds are going to be key in self-improvement. Whether you are looking for something that will make your days brighter when you are feeling down or need new products to incorporate into your day-to-day, you're sure to find some self-care necessities that you won't be able to live without.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Lip Mask Offers 12-Hour Hydration

Amazon

Soothe dry, chapped lips with this Lanolips overnight lip mask. The gentle formula is infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and ceramides to transform your pout while you sleep.

See it on Amazon

Keep Warm This Winter With a Bedsure Heated Blanket

Amazon

Picture this: You're reading your favorite book, sipping hot chocolate, and cuddling up under this heated blanket from Bedsure. This electric blanket will take your self-care routine to the next level. Available in a variety of colors to match your style, this heated throw blanket offers six heating levels and four timer settings for customizable coziness.

See it on Amazon

Plan the Perfect Date Using It’s a Date! Scratch Off Date Ideas

Amazon

A form of self-care is not having to stress about what to do on your next date night. Whether you've been dating for a few months or several years, It's a Date! Scratch Off Date Ideas makes dating fun again. With 40 unique date ideas, you'll have plenty of exciting dates without worrying about what to plan next.

See it on Amazon

Get a Brighter Smile With SNOW Diamond Wireless Whitening Kit

Amazon

Take your self-care routine up a notch and get a brighter smile with this SNOW diamond wireless whitening kit. This teeth whitening kit for sensitive teeth includes proprietary whitening serum and advanced LED light technology for superior white teeth, giving you brighter teeth in as little as one day.

See it on Amazon

This Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Is Great for Anti-Aging

Amazon

This Medik8 crystal retinal 1 is great for anti-aging. This retinal is formulated with retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and Vitamin E to boost hydration and smooth fine lines to renew and revive your skin.

See it on Amazon

Treat Your Body With the TRIO NUTRITION Biotin Hair Abundance Supplement

Amazon

Make sure your body is getting the vitamins and minerals it deserves to stay happy and healthy. A high-quality supplement is always a good idea to add to your self-care routine. This biotin hair abundance supplement by TRIO NUTRITION helps promote stronger hair, skin, and nails. The blend of biotin, zinc, collagen, keratin, and other ingredients improves hair thickness and gives skin a radiant glow.

See it on Amazon

The SHASH Natural Boar Bristle Nail Brush Keeps Hands Sparkling Clean

Amazon

Make sure you give your hands the TLC they deserve. Keep your hands and nails clean and healthy with this natural boar bristle nail brush by SHASH. This brush gently scrubs away dead skin and helps boost circulation to support overall nail health. A great tool for at-home manicures and to have in self-care kits.

See it on Amazon

The Grownsy EaseClean Bottle Washer Pro Takes the Stress out of Keeping Bottles Clean

Amazon

New parents and parents with young children need all the help they can get. The EaseClean bottle washer pro by Grownsy is here to provide that help and make cleaning and sanitizing your baby's bottles a breeze. The 26 powerful spray jets clean, sterilize, and dry bottles, pacifiers, pump parts, and other baby accessories.

See it on Amazon

Get Premium Sleep With This Honeydew Scrumptious Side Pillow

Amazon

A pillow is one of the few things that people use daily. Having a high-quality pillow is essential to getting a great night's rest and is one of the best things one can do for self-care. Sleep experts design the Honeydew Scrumption side pillow to adapt to your body to provide unmatched comfort. The gentle curved design and cooling copper gel memory foam filling make this pillow perfect for back and side sleepers. 

See it on Amazon

Baths Are Better With an Umbra Aquala Bathtub Caddy

Amazon

Want to update your bath time? You'll absolutely love this aquala bathtub caddy from Umbra. This design features a sturdy slot for your phone, a double hook for your loofah, a wine glass holder, and an additional middle bar for extra support to prop up your book, magazine, or tablet. Just add some bubbles, and you'll have a full spa experience.

See it on Amazon

Treat Your Scalp With Bea's Bayou Dry Scalp Conditioner

Amazon

A good hair routine is a crucial part of a self-care ritual. If you suffer from dry scalp, you need to try out this dry scalp conditioner from Bea's Bayou. This scalp care brand is inspired by bayou botanicals and uses the power of probiotics to nourish the scalp. People with all hair types and textures suffer from itchy and irritated scalp, especially in the winter months, and this conditioner is the solution your wellness routine has been waiting for.

See it on Amazon

Wine Lovers Need a Boxxle Box Wine Dispenser

Amazon

Wine lovers need this box wine dispenser from Boxxle, which can accommodate a 3-liter bottle or a full box of wine. Boxxle's patented technology ensures a smooth and consistent pour without the need to manually squeeze the bag. This wine dispenser combines an elegant stainless steel design with practicality, making it a stylish addition to any kitchen or bar.

See it on Amazon

Treat Your Skin to MISSHA Cell Renew Snail Mucin Vitamin C Cream

Amazon

Don't neglect your skin when you're doing your self-care routine. Keep your skin moisturized and hydrated this winter with this MISSHA cell renew snail mucin vitamin C cream. Infused with 90% Snail Mucin Vitamin C complex, this serum improves skin texture and enhances the complexion for a rejuvenated look.

See it on Amazon

Experience Aromatherapy With Esprit de Fleur Essential Oil Diffuser

Amazon

Elevate your space and experience pure aromatherapy with this Esprit de Fleur essential oil diffuser. This essential oil diffuser features a waterless and heatless oil nebulizer design for a more potent and natural scent dispersion. You're going to love how this adds to your winter wellness routine.

See it on Amazon

This Poppy & Pout Natural Lip Scrub Hydrates Dry Lips

Amazon

Dry lips got you down this winter season? Keep lips moisturized with this Poppy & Pout natural lip scrub. This is going to be the perfect addition to your self-care routine. This lip scrub gently exfoliates dry and rough lips, leaving them supple and silky smooth.

See it on Amazon

Improve Your Daily Life With a Koolatron Kenmore Espresso Machine

Amazon

Sometimes, self-care lies in the perfect cup of coffee. If you want to improve your daily routine, start your mornings with this Koolatron Kenmore espresso machine. With an advanced temperature regulation and a 15 bar pump that automatically adjusts between low-pressure pre-infusion and higher-pressure extraction to produce balanced espresso with rich crema, a built-in, conical burr grinder, and a 360° swivel-action steam wand fully integrates milk and air into a rich micro-foam that's perfect for making barista-quality latte art, this all-in-one espresso maker comes with everything you need.

See it on Amazon

Transform Bath Time With a BADESOFA Luxury Bath Tub Pillow

Amazon

If your idea of self-care is soaking in a hot bath, you'll love this luxury bathtub pillow from BADESOFA. This bathtub pillow uses the highest quality European craftsmanship with premium materials that offer superior comfort and durability. The revolutionary water-resistant cushions provide full-body relaxation that takes bath time to the next level.

See it on Amazon

Go Natural With Your Skincare Routine With Leaf People Aloe Lavender Herbal Face Wash

Amazon

If you want to update your self-care routine with some all-natural skincare, you're going to need this aloe lavender herbal face wash from Leaf People. This cleanser, infused with a beautiful herbal blend, succeeds in reviving skin as it cleanses. This delicate wash has a light, gel-like consistency with a gorgeous essential oil blend

See it on Amazon

Sleep Better With a Plufl Hugl Cooling Body Pillow

Amazon

Self-care means getting a good night's sleep. If you want to sleep better, cuddle up with this Plufl Hugl cooling body pillow. It is expertly engineered with memory foam stuffing to provide unparalleled support for your body, ensuring relief from tension and promoting deeper sleep.

See it on Amazon

Boost Your Mood With Enzymedica SubCulture Probiotics

Amazon

Self-care is about ensuring you feel good inside and out. A powerful probiotic like the Enzymedica SubCulture probiotics is very beneficial to not just your body but also your mental well-being. This blend of probiotics and post-biotics helps support mental stress, promote better sleep, and reduce stress. Start feeling your best self with this probiotic.

See it on Amazon

This Mizani Hairdress Rose H20 Is Great for Curly Hair

Amazon

The self-care routine for curly hair requires a lot of steps. Luckily, this Mizani Hairdress Rose H2O is a cream for all texture types. This lightweight hair cream revitalizes and restores the curl’s natural luster without building up or weighing hair down, transforming your hair and your wellness routine.

See it on Amazon

Quench Your Thirst With PATH Alkaline Bottled Water

Amazon

Add this PATH alkaline bottled water to your wellness routine. PATH is dedicated to minimizing plastic pollution and providing long-term solutions for your daily water needs. Every bottle contains fresh, high-alkalinity water that’s been perfectly pH-balanced and reverse osmosis filtered to keep you hydrated and active.

See it on Amazon

Your Nails Will Love Greenmade Goods Natural Cuticle Oil Pens

Amazon

Give your nails a little extra TLC with natural cuticle oil pens from Greenmade Goods. These three botanical-infused pens are easy to apply on the go. Simply twist the pen until you see a bead of oil, then apply it with the unique no-mess brush applicator.

See it on Amazon

The Silicone Kitchen Silicone Microwave Popcorn Maker Is Perfect for Movie Nights

Amazon

If your idea of a self-care night involves sitting in front of the TV with a bowl of popcorn, you're going to love The Silicone Kitchen silicone microwave popcorn maker. This comes with one silicone popcorn maker popper with handles and lid that are microwave-safe, making it easy to enjoy popcorn on your self-care nights.

See it on Amazon

California Naturals Leave In Conditioner Is a 3-in-1 Product

Amazon

Upgrade your post-shower routine with this California Naturals leave-in conditioner. Equal parts primer, detangler, and styler, this clean, 3-in-1 leave-in conditioner is the perfect first step in your post-shower routine. Coconut milk helps provide instant hydration, while sunflower sprout extract and mongongo oil work to keep strands soft, shiny-smooth, and frizz-free.

See it on Amazon

Create a Calm Environment With Soul Space Incense Blends Starter Bundle

Amazon

Create a calm environment full of zen that allows you to relax after a long day. This Soul Space incense blends starter bundle will transform your space, letting you really tap into your self-care routine. Designed for mood-adaptable enjoyment, this elegant holder allows for easy switching between the seven sample-size envelopes of all-natural incense blends.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy a Tasty Cup of MoonBrew Magnesium Hot Cocoa

Amazon

There's nothing quite like the combination of colder weather and a cup of delicious hot cocoa. The MoonBrew magnesium hot cocoa is a sugar-free, low-calorie, superfood drink. This hot cocoa is created with a blend of chamomile, magnesium, l-theanine, and other ingredients to calm your mind and promote better sleep quality. Wind down after a long day with a soothing cup of this hot cocoa.

See it on Amazon

Taste the Health Benefits of The Modica Turmeric Ginger Mule Mocktail Mixer

Amazon

Green smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and other superfood-enriched drinks are a wonderful addition to anyone's self-care routine. If you enjoy having a healthy drink, then you'll love this turmeric ginger mule mocktail mixer by Modica. This mocktail mixer contains turmeric and ginger, elevating the classic mule into a better-tasting, guilt-free delight.

See it on Amazon

The Enzymedica Digest Basic Will Keep Your Body Happy

Amazon

Stop suffering from post-meal discomfort and start treating your body right. The Enzymedica Digest Basic is made with a potent digestive enzyme blend that helps break down food to reduce bloating and indigestion. Get rid of gas and bloating after eating and feel the difference in your body.

See it on Amazon

Enjoy Cooling Comfort With The Nakery Cryo Cool Down Body Cream

Amazon

Your self-care routine should include something that makes you feel refreshed and relaxed. This cryo cool down body cream by Nakery is perfect for revitalizing your skin with instant nourishment. Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera provide deep hydration to firm and tighten skin. 

See it on Amazon

Take Your Bath to the Next Level With ASUTRA Dead Sea Bath Salts

Amazon

Unwind after a long day with a hot and relaxing bath. The dead sea bath salts by ASUTRA are rich in minerals and infused with essential oils to provide amazing aromatherapy benefits. Soak your muscles and joints and feel your stress melt away in a relaxing bath with these luxurious bath salts.

See it on Amazon

Experience Next-Gen Entertainment With The Meta Quest 3

Amazon

Unlock new ways to work, play, and relax with the revolutionary Meta Quest 3. Blend digital objects into your physical space, mixing reality wherever you go. Built with crystal clear displays providing 4K resolution for a more expansive field of view to feel fully immersed in your favorite entertainment. The slim profile and wireless design provide superior comfort everywhere you go.

See it on Amazon

The BeautyStat Triple Action Exfoliating Peel Pad Is Travel-Ready

Amazon

Treat your skin and wipe away all the dirt, oil, and build-up from the day. The triple-action exfoliating peel pad by BeautyStat cleanses dry skin and dead skin cells to reveal younger-looking, radiant skin. Reduce the appearance of dark spots and enlarged pores while tightening skin and locking in hydration.

See it on Amazon

Get Fuller-Looking Hair Using The NUTRI-OX Starter Kit for Thinning Hair

Amazon

High levels of stress can cause hair to thin and other types of hair loss. It's important to spend time focusing on your self-care and letting yourself release all of your pent-up stress. The NUTRI-OX starter kit for thinning hair is here to take your worry away from thinning hair and help bring back your confidence and beautiful hair. Gently cleanse your scalp, hydrate hair from the roots, and get thicker and fuller-looking hair.

See it on Amazon

Treat Your Hair to the Pharmaceris Hair Growth Treatment

Amazon

No more stressing about premature hair loss or hair thinning. Whether your hair thinning is due to genetic, hormonal, or environmental factors, this hair growth treatment by Pharmaceris is here to bring back full, voluminous hair. Great for both men and women facing hair loss, the unique blend of ingredients improves microcirculation and slows hair aging for optimal hair health.

See it on Amazon

The DNA Vibe Jazz Band Live Helps Your Body Recover

Amazon

Whether your body is sore from the gym or tired from being a busy adult with a full schedule, it's vital to set aside time for your self-care. The DNA vibe jazz band live is an easy-to-use light therapy device that helps reduce discomfort and speed up recovery. The ultra-flexible design is optimized to fit over every part of the body to ease muscle and joint stiffness.

See it on Amazon

The Tovala Smart Oven Takes the Stress Out of Cooking

Amazon

Part of improving your self-care is making delicious meals with minimal effort so you can spend more time on yourself. The Tovala smart oven is a 5-in-1 air fryer/toaster/oven combo that will be your favorite kitchen appliance. The smart technology lets you scan bar codes, and the oven automatically sets the temperature and time to cook your meals perfectly. Connect to the app to know exactly how much cooking time is left and never worry about burnt food again.

See it on Amazon

Whiten Sensitive Teeth With the Lumineux 2-in-1 Whitening Pen

Amazon

Add this 2-in-1 whitening pen by Lumineux to your self-care routine to achieve the bright white smile you've always wanted. This pen is formulated with premium ingredients and has been clinically proven to be safe and effective for whitening teeth without causing sensitivity. The gel acts as a shield to prevent new stains from forming and protect against staining liquids like coffee, tea, and red wine.

See it on Amazon

The Sia Silk Contoured Eye Mask Will Help You Get Your Beauty Sleep

Amazon

Getting a good night's sleep is one of the most important and beneficial things one can do for their health. For anyone who is a light sleeper or particularly sensitive to light, this contoured eye mask by Sia Silk is for you. Made with 100% silk for a luxurious feel and filled with memory foam to provide a deep contour for unmatched comfort.

See it on Amazon

Get a Detailed Understanding of Your Wellness With The 23andMe DNA Test

Amazon

Knowledge is power, and knowing your family's history of health and well-being is an important part of being able to take care of yourself. The 23andMe DNA Test has more than 65 personalized reports on your health, from predispositions to certain risks to carrier statuses of certain inherited conditions. See how genetics plays a role in the chances of developing certain health conditions.

See it on Amazon

Get a Spa-Like Experience With the Baby Foot Original Exfoliation Foot Peel

Amazon

Self-care should involve treating your entire body, so don't neglect your feet. The original exfoliation foot peel by Baby Foot helps eliminate calluses and heals cracked and rough skin. Its powerful blend of lactic acid, glycolic acid, and 16 botanical extracts removes dead skin layers, leaving feet feeling smooth and rejuvenated.

See it on Amazon

Stay Cozy With This Pretty Rugged Camel Faux Fur Blanket

Amazon

Everyone should have a warm, cozy blanket they can snuggle up in. Envelop yourself in the luxurious camel faux fur blanket by Pretty Rugged. This blanket is lined with ultra-soft faux fur on one side and a waterproof backing on the other side to keep you comfortable and dry.

See it on Amazon