When did Christmas cards get so intense? As the mental load piles up, some families are opting out

The tradition of sending out family photo Christmas cards is a topic that garners mixed feelings among parents. Some see it as a cherished custom that brings them joy, while others view it as an unnecessary burden during an already hectic time of year. The mental load associated with Christmas cards can be overwhelming, from sourcing a photographer to selecting outfits, choosing a location, designing the cards, and finally mailing them out.

Mom influencer Abby Eckel highlighted the extensive process involved in sending out Christmas cards in a viral TikTok video, emphasizing that it’s not just about mailing them out. Dayna Roberts, a mom from Ottawa, shared her struggle in printing family photos for personalized Christmas cards every year, with the pressure often falling on the mom. The added stress of the Canada Post strike this year has made Roberts unsure if she will bother sending out cards at all.

While some polls suggest that Christmas cards are a dying tradition, others indicate that people still prefer sending physical cards to connect with loved ones. The seasonal stress and comparison culture surrounding Christmas cards can contribute to high stress levels among parents, with moms often feeling more pressure than dads. Modern stresses and the culture of comparison perpetuated by influencers and online trends can create unrealistic expectations for parents to live up to.

Parenting coach Julie Romanowski advises parents to set intentions for the holiday season, focusing on peace, calm, and joy. She encourages parents to reflect on what traditions are meaningful to them and to consider whether the pressure to send out Christmas cards is truly necessary. Romanowski emphasizes the importance of prioritizing activities and traditions that bring genuine joy, rather than succumbing to external pressures.

While the tradition of sending out family photo Christmas cards has evolved over the years, it’s essential for parents to evaluate their motivations and determine what truly matters to them during the holiday season. Whether you embrace the tradition wholeheartedly or opt out altogether, the most important thing is to prioritize your mental well-being and focus on creating meaningful experiences for your family.