Christmas is supposed to be a season of joy.

A season of peace. And a season of remembering the miracle of Jesus coming near.

But if we’re honest… most years don’t feel like that.

Most years feel like rushing. Overspending. Overcommitting. And trying to create “magical moments” while quietly feeling stretched too thin.

I’ve lived through those Christmases too. The ones where I tried so hard to make everything perfect that I missed the quiet, sacred moments right in front of me.

A few years ago, I knew something had to change.

I didn’t want Christmas to feel chaotic anymore. I wanted it to feel meaningful… simple… peaceful… and actually enjoyable for my whole family.

That’s when I started embracing a Simple Christmas. And it has completely changed our holiday season.

And friend, I want that for you too.

Why We Feel Overwhelmed at Christmas

I think the overwhelm comes from good intentions.

We want to create magic for our kids. We want to attend all the events. We want to make everyone happy. We want to squeeze every ounce of joy out of the season.

But joy doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from doing what actually matters.

And the truth is… a purposeful Christmas doesn't require perfection. It requires clarity.

Clarity about what matters to you, your family, and what Jesus is inviting you into this season.

Once you have that clarity, everything else becomes easier to say yes — or no — to.

What a Simple Christmas Actually Looks Like

A simple Christmas doesn’t mean a boring Christmas. And it doesn’t mean doing less for the sake of less.

It means choosing what matters and letting go of what doesn’t.

Here are a few ways we’ve simplified our season over the years:

1. Choose your “must-do” moments

Not everything needs to happen and not every tradition needs to stay.
Pick 3–5 things that make Christmas feel like Christmas for your family.
Protect those moments and release the rest.

2. Create a vision for the season

When you picture waking up on Christmas morning and looking back —

What do you want to feel?
What do you want your kids to remember?
What do you want your December to look like?

When you know the vision, the decisions become easier.

3. Plan your calendar with intention

Instead of filling every day, leave room to breathe.

Room to rest.
Room to bake cookies or watch a movie last minute without stress.
Room for the unexpected blessings.

4. Simplify gift-giving

One of our favorite traditions is the 4-gift system:
Something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read.

It keeps things meaningful AND simple.

5. Keep Jesus at the center

Whether it’s Advent readings, prayer as a family, or choosing Scripture for the month…

Let His presence lead your season, not your to-do list.

The Resource That Helps Me Most

When I started redesigning our holiday season years ago, I created a simple guide to keep myself on track.

And it helped so much that I wanted to share it with other women who were craving the same peace and intention.

It became A Simple Christmas — a gentle, faith-filled printable guide to help you create the Christmas you’ve been longing for.

Inside you’ll find:

• A 25-day Advent Scripture reading plan

• A 10-day Simple Christmas challenge

• Vision pages

• Bucket lists

• Gift planning

• Meal planning

• A Christmas card list

• Family traditions pages

• And more

And because I want this season to feel peaceful for you… I’m giving it to you for free.

You can download it instantly below:

👉 Get your free A Simple Christmas guide here.

You Deserve a Christmas Filled With Peace

Friend, you don’t have to do it all.

You don’t have to chase the perfect Christmas.
You don’t have to say yes to everything.

You are allowed to slow down.
You are allowed to choose what matters.
You are allowed to protect your peace and create a season that feels gentle and joyful.

And I pray this year is the year you finally do.

Here’s to a simple, meaningful, Christ-centered Christmas. One you’ll actually remember with joy.

And I’m cheering you on the whole way. ❤️

xox
Corie

FAQs

How can I simplify Christmas when I feel overwhelmed?

Start by choosing what matters most to you and your family. Create a simple vision for the season, say no to unnecessary commitments, and protect your “must-do” moments. Intentional planning can transform the entire month.

What is a simple way to keep Christmas Christ-centered?

Use Advent readings, prayer moments, and intentional conversations with your family. Keeping your focus on Jesus doesn’t require perfection. Just presence and purpose.

How can I create a peaceful Christmas for my family?

Simplify your calendar, reduce clutter, plan your priorities early, and make room for rest. A peaceful Christmas starts with realistic expectations and intentional choices.

Where can I get a printable Christmas planner?

You can download my free A Simple Christmas guide — it includes Advent Scriptures, a 10-day simplicity challenge, calendars, gift lists, and more.

Other resources you might like

• Purposeful Planner — plan your days with intention

• Purposeful Life Method — rediscover your God-given purpose

• The Purpose Project Book — deepen your faith and purpose journey

Follow Corie on Instagram: instagram.com/corieclark