NEW YORK — As the holiday season approaches, many individuals face an array of stressors, including social demands, family tensions, political disagreements, financial burdens, and the pressure to maintain a joyful demeanor. To help alleviate these pressures and fully embrace the spirit of the holidays, it is essential to release the grip of perfectionism.

According to Lynn F. Bufka, a professional with the American Psychological Association, “Letting go of the ‘shoulds’ can be hugely beneficial.” She advises focusing on what brings the most happiness and prioritizing those elements, rather than attempting to fulfill every expectation. Traditions can evolve, and being adaptable can make the season enjoyable for everyone involved. Lauren Iannotti, editor in chief of Real Simple, echoes Bufka’s sentiment, emphasizing the importance of fostering a warm environment where loved ones can gather, enjoy each other’s company, and celebrate.

Here are some strategies to make your holiday experience more pleasant:

Immerse yourself in the aspects of the holiday that you find the most enjoyable. If engaging in heartfelt conversations is your goal, you may want to set aside decor concerns, Bufka suggests. Conversely, if you find joy in decorating the table, devote your energy there and don’t stress about other preparations. “The essence is to focus on love, though its meaning can vary for each person,” Bufka adds.

Don’t hesitate to delegate some responsibilities. Iannotti points out that “people genuinely want to lend a hand—allow them to!” If cooking multiple side dishes feels overwhelming, there’s no harm in accepting a relative’s offer to assist or in hiring local caterers to alleviate the burden.

Consider organizing a potluck. This way, each guest can bring a signature dish, saving you time and money while allowing them to showcase their culinary talents.

Permit yourself to simplify your plans. Iannotti reassures that it’s perfectly fine if your home isn’t immaculate or if dinner takes a few extra minutes to get on the table. “If your guests are more interested in critiquing your efforts than enjoying themselves, they should rethink their perspective,” she suggests.

Allow guests to help themselves whenever possible. If you’re pressed for time, preparing a signature drink in advance can ease the burden, as can setting out mixers for them to create their own beverages, as advised by Caroline Utz, director of editorial and strategy for The Spruce.

Taking moments of solitude for yourself is important too. The gathering will thrive even if you step back for a time. Engaging in short breaks or taking strolls can be instrumental in maintaining your equilibrium. Brook Choulet, a psychiatrist specializing in performance, recommends integrating “intentional micro-breaks” into your schedule to do something you enjoy, like a brief phone call with a friend or a quiet soak in the bath.

Remember to anticipate some disagreements and remain calm in the face of them. If you find yourself anxious about potentially contentious topics, Bufka encourages preemptive thinking about how to redirect or conclude such conversations. Writing down a few phrases in advance can be useful to navigate the situation smoothly.

Ultimately, embracing a holiday season that doesn’t aim for perfection might just be the ideal approach to truly enjoy this special time of year.