Staying Balanced During the Holidays When You’re Far from Home

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If you’re living internationally, the holiday season can feel both exciting and difficult. You may feel proud of the life you’ve built abroad, yet deeply aware of what you left behind. There’s a mix of old and new traditions, online calls home, last-minute work deadlines, new ‘family’ and maybe even travel plans. It can quickly become overwhelming. While the world around you feels loud and busy, there may also be quieter emotions surfacing underneath: nostalgia, longing, gratitude, or even exhaustion. Being away from home during a season that is centred around togetherness can bring up unexpected feelings. Even when life abroad is going well.

Below are a few gentle and realistic ways to stay balanced during the holiday season. Not as rules, and not as “one more thing to do,” but as soft reminders to take care of yourself along the way.

1. Build a What-I-Can-Control List

When life feels overwhelming, it helps to narrow your focus to what truly is in your hands. Instead of trying to do everything at once, write down only what you can realistically manage this season. Maybe that’s one meaningful video call per week with family back home. Maybe it means sending voice notes or creating short videos in advance instead of feeling pressured to “show up” at specific times across time zones. Perhaps digital cards replace handwritten ones this year and that is perfectly okay. Let go of the idea that you have to recreate every tradition exactly as it used to be. Some things will look different and that doesn’t mean it’s bad!

2. Prioritise Rest Over Hustle

December tends to demand more energy than it gives back. Between social expectations, work deadlines, and emotional weight, it’s easy to run on empty without even noticing. Try to give yourself permission to slow down. That may look like early nights, slower mornings, or a quiet walk without a podcast or phone. If daylight is scarce, even a short walk outside can lift your mood more than you expect. Living in a sunny destination but feeling cozy and tired anyway? Give in. Wrap yourself in a blanket, watch your comfort movie, make some tea and allow yourself to rest.

3. Stay Physically Grounded

Gentle movement can make a big difference: stretching in the morning, dancing in your living room, or a quick workout to release tension. You don’t need a strict routine. Just move in ways that feel kind to your body. It may sound obvious, but it matters: drink enough water, eat nourishing and colourful meals, and pay attention to what your body is asking for. If you’re travelling, give yourself time to adjust. Jet lag, different food and constant motion can take a quiet toll, so rest before jumping straight back into full speed.

4. Be Kind to Yourself

If you feel lonely, overwhelmed, emotional or nostalgic, let yourself acknowledge it instead of pushing it away. Your feelings make sense. This time of year carries weight, and you are allowed to feel it. Reach out if you can. Send a message to someone who understands your journey. Join a local event or community group or invite someone for a simple meal or coffee. Connection doesn’t always need to be big or perfectly planned. Sometimes it’s the smallest moments that bring the most comfort.

5. Reframe Holiday Pressure

You don’t have to do everything. You get to choose what matters. Release the shoulds whenever you notice them. This small shift can make a big difference. It reminds you that your energy is limited and valuable. Not every invitation needs to be accepted. Not every tradition needs to be continued. You don’t need a picture perfect holiday, but instead aim for something peaceful and intentional.