What does "connecting to your heart" even mean in the middle of a frenzy?

It means tuning in to what truly matters—not just what's loudest on your calendar or nagging in your head. It's a mindset shift. 

The K.I.S.S. ~ Save time on the right things!

And here are three things you can do that actually save time by focusing on the right things.

1. Prioritize What Feels Meaningful — Not Just Urgent

Holiday checklists are full of "shoulds" shouted by world: culture, family, and tradition. But not everything deserves your time or energy.

Real-life tweak: Before committing to another party, gift run, or decorating spree, ask yourself, "Will this make my heart lighter or heavier?" If it's the latter, cut it out.

As author Brené Brown puts it, "Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others."

This saves time not by doing more—it saves time by doing less of what drains you, which leaves space for what energizes you. More energy, faster results.

2. Build Mini Rituals for Daily Reset

You don't need an all-day retreat, but five minutes each morning or evening to center yourself makes a huge difference. The goal is to ground yourself in your core values and the deeper holiday meaning behind all the madness.

Real-life tweak: Light a candle while you sip your morning coffee and set one intention like, "Today, I choose calm." Or write a sentence of gratitude to remind yourself why the fuss is worth it.

As Thich Nhat Hanh said, "Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy." A small ritual like this rewires your mindset, turning scattered frenzy into focused flow.

3. Say 'No' to Guilt, 'Yes' to Presence

We cram days so full that we lose presence, which ironically steals time by creating overwhelm and burnout. Show up fully where you are instead of half mentally spinning five moves ahead.

Real-life tweak: When you're with family, phones down. When cooking, be in the moment with the food, not zoning out to holiday stress. If you say 'no' to one task or event, show up fully for the next one without mental baggage.

Eckhart Tolle nailed it: "Wherever you are, be there totally." Presence isn't just a nice idea—it's a time multiplier because fully engaged moments are more productive and more fulfilling.

The Bottom Line

The holidays are not going to slow down for you. You have to slow down yourself to gain time and energy. 

This year, don't let "busy" rob your holidays. Connect to your heart, and watch how your time stretches in the nooks and crannies of your day.

"Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"