The holidays are often a time for togetherness and celebration, but when this article was first written in 2020, many of us were navigating the added strain of COVID-19 restrictions. With gatherings limited around the globe, stress levels ran high and assertiveness skills were put to the test. While the circumstances have shifted in 2025, holiday stress is still very real. Between family expectations, packed schedules, and financial pressures, it’s common to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stretched too thin this time of year.

That’s where boundary setting comes in. Learning to prioritize your values, needs, and wants isn’t just a COVID-era skill - it’s one of the most effective ways to manage holiday anxiety, reduce burnout, and improve relationships. In this article, we’ll walk through practical coping strategies for setting healthy boundaries so you can enjoy more connection, balance, and ease this holiday season.