The holiday season is here again — a time of twinkling lights, joyful gatherings, and often, a whirlwind of activity. Many of us feel the pressure to keep up with the season’s demands: the perfect gifts, festive meals, and a calendar bursting with events. But amidst the busyness, I want to offer you a gentle reminder: you have permission to move as fast as the slowest part of you needs to go.

This idea may sound counterintuitive, especially in a culture that prizes productivity and speed. Yet, honouring your own pace is one of the most compassionate gifts you can give yourself this season.

Listening to Your Inner Tempo

Each of us carries within us different “parts” of ourselves: the part that wants to say yes to every invitation, the part that feels overwhelmed, the part that longs for quiet, and perhaps even the part that fears missing out. These parts coexist and sometimes conflict, creating internal tension.

The slowest part of you—the part that hesitates, resists, or simply needs rest—often holds wisdom. It’s the part attuned to your deeper needs: connection, calm, and care. Slowing down to listen to it doesn’t mean you’re failing or falling behind. It means you’re attuning to what’s truly important.

Permission to Pause

Giving yourself permission to slow down might look like:

  • Saying no to an event if your energy feels stretched too thin.
  • Taking a quiet walk to reconnect with yourself amidst the holiday noise.
  • Prioritising moments of stillness, even if it’s just five minutes with a cup of tea.
  • Setting boundaries with loved ones when you need space.
  • Reminding yourself that it’s okay not to have everything “perfect.”

Slowing down doesn’t mean missing out; it means showing up fully for the moments that truly matter. When you honour the slowest part of you, you’re more likely to feel present, connected, and at peace.

The Ripple Effect of Self-Compassion

As you practice moving at your own pace, you model something powerful for those around you. Children, partners, friends, and colleagues observe how you treat yourself, and your self-compassion can inspire them to do the same. In a season often marked by stress and hustle, your choice to slow down can bring a sense of calm to your community.

This Holiday Season, Give Yourself Permission

The holidays are not about how much you can do, but how much you can be present with what you do. By moving at the pace of your slowest part, you give yourself the gift of alignment and authenticity. You create space for joy to emerge naturally, without force or expectation.

So, this holiday season, pause. Listen to the parts of you that need rest and give yourself the grace to follow their lead. Trust that this slower, gentler pace is not just enough—it’s exactly what you need.

Happy holidays to you and yours. May your season be filled with moments of peace, connection, and self-compassion.