When Motivation Fades and Christmas Draws Near

When Motivation Fades

and Christmas Draws Near

Feeling overwhelmed this Christmas? You’re not alone. There’s a simple way to reclaim peace and purpose this season.

Have you ever been so motivated, so excited about an idea, that you jumped in with both feet, ready to accomplish something meaningful? Maybe you had a plan that would bless others or a thought you were eager to share because you knew it would touch hearts.

And then… life happened. The momentum slipped away. Suddenly it’s like holding a balloon with no helium. Your excitement deflates, and doubt and uncertainty quietly become your companions.

If that sounds familiar, you are definitely not alone.

When we find ourselves here, unsure and a little overwhelmed, there’s one simple, steady step to take: pray.

Regain Your Focus

Back in October, I had every intention of being ready for Christmas early this year. I made lists, checked off tasks, and genuinely felt ahead of the curve. But time—well, time does what time does. It slipped right through my fingers.

And now here we are. It's December 8, seventeen days until Christmas. I’ve made progress, yes, but that rising sense of panic keeps trying to creep in.

Are you feeling it too?

Here’s the truth: that’s not what the Lord invites us into. So let’s gently step back to where we started.

• Did you make your list?

• Have you made any progress?

• Or are you seeing the finish line and suddenly feeling too tired to run the last stretch?

Please, don’t get discouraged.

Remember What Christmas Is Really About

We love giving gifts and celebrating in ways that show our loved ones we’re thinking of them. But let’s not forget to slow down and remember what Christmas is really all about: the birth of our Savior, the greatest event in all of history.

How do we know it was world-changing? Because His birth didn’t just touch lives; it changed the calendar itself.

One thing I did this year was buy an Advent calendar for our granddaughter so she could celebrate with their four children, a sweet reminder that while gifts are fun and meaningful, Christmas is so much more than that.

Let Go of Anxiety

Take a few moments, right now if you can, to come before the Lord. Ask Him to take your anxiety, steady your heart, and help you walk through these days with purpose and peace. When we cast our cares on Him, He truly does care for us.

Simple & Heartfelt Gift Ideas

Here are a few thoughtful gifts that won’t add stress but will add meaning:

• Homemade cooking kit – Include a few Christmas cookie cutters, sprinkles, and a simple sugar cookie recipe.

• Dress-up kits – Gather fun items throughout the year for boys or girls to spark imaginative play.

• Memory gifts – Create a small memory book or frame a couple of favorite photos. (One of my great granddaughters loves pictures of herself!)

• Experience gifts for adults – A car wash, a babysitting night for parents to have a date, or a special outing together.

• Handmade cards – I love photographing flowers, water, and mountains, so I created blank note cards as a gift for someone who enjoys sending encouragement through the mail. Include stamps to make it complete.

These are just a few ideas. Gifts don’t have to be elaborate. They just need heart.

Today, Take One Step

Breathe deeply. Do one thing that honors the Lord and blesses the people you love as we draw closer to Christmas. Let’s walk this season not in panic, but in peace, remembering the One who came to save us.

A Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Son and the hope He brings into our lives. Calm our hearts, lift our anxieties, and help us focus on what truly matters this season. Guide our actions so that they honor You and bring joy to those we love. May we celebrate with peace, gratitude, and a spirit of love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Call to Action

Take a moment today to slow down, breathe, and do one small thing that honors the Lord and blesses someone you love.

Share your experience in the comments. I’d love to hear how you’re keeping Christ at the center of your Christmas!