Happy Friday! Most of you are probably winding down and getting ready to start your time away from work. This is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, right? Cue the cheerful jingles, twinkling lights, and that underlying pressure to smile through it all - whether you feel like it or not. But let’s be honest, forcing happiness is about as effective as stapling water to a tree.

You don’t have to act happy just because it’s December. Life doesn’t magically become picture-perfect when the calendar flips to the holiday season. There’s this unspoken rule that we should all be jolly 24/7, even if we’re exhausted, grieving, or just overwhelmed. It’s okay to not be okay, even with a backdrop of glitter and garlands.

Let’s take a moment to dismantle the myth of mandatory holiday cheer. If you're not in a cheery mood, that's ok. You don’t owe anyone a performance of happiness, no matter how many family gatherings or office parties you attend. If the thought of small talk over eggnog makes you cringe, it’s okay to step back and prioritize your own emotional well-being.

When you’re honest about how you’re feeling, you give others permission to do the same. Imagine a world where someone asks, “How are you?” and you respond with, “Honestly, I’m hanging in there,” instead of the automatic, “I’m great!” You might be surprised at how refreshing and connecting that honesty can be.

And then there’s the comparison trap, the highlight reels of everyone else’s holiday perfection plastered all over social media. But let’s remember: Those smiling photos don’t ever tell the full story. For every “magical” moment captured, there’s probably a tantrum, a burnt pie, or an argument. Don’t let curated images convince you that you’re doing it wrong.

Instead of chasing a manufactured version of joy, focus on what truly makes you feel at peace. That might mean skipping a party, setting boundaries, or indulging in a solo Netflix binge. Give yourself permission to experience this time of year in a way that feels right for you, even if it looks nothing like what you see on social media or the Hallmark channel.

So make space for whatever you’re genuinely feeling. Joy, sadness, gratitude, frustration, they all have a place. So, light a candle, take a deep breath, and know that it’s okay to go through this season on your own terms. Real happiness comes from being true to yourself, not from forcing a smile.

If you could use a little extra help making changes now, or after the season ends, I'm here for you! Because we can all use a helping hand.