Permission Slips You’re Allowed to Use This Month

December has a way of making us feel like we’re behind before we even start. 

Behind on plans. Behind on rest. Behind on finishing strong. Somewhere along the way, the season that’s supposed to feel meaningful starts to feel like a performance.

So consider this your official reminder: You’re allowed to do December your own way.

Sometimes what we need most this time of year isn’t another tip or strategy—it’s permission. Permission to let go of expectations, slow down the pace, and stop measuring ourselves against some imaginary standard of how this month is supposed to look.

With that in mind, here are a few permission slips you’re welcome to use freely for the rest of December.

Permission to Not Do It All

You do not need to attend every event, say yes to every invitation, or cram your calendar full just because it’s December. Choosing not to do something isn’t a failure—it’s a decision. You’re allowed to pick what matters most and let the rest go. December doesn’t have to be full to be meaningful.

Permission to Change Your Mind

What felt like a good idea a few weeks ago might not feel right anymore—and that’s okay. You’re allowed to change your plans, shift priorities, or decide you don’t have the energy for something after all. You don’t owe anyone consistency at the expense of your well-being.

Permission to Keep Things Simple

Not everything needs to be elevated, optimized, or made special. Simple meals. Simple plans. Simple days. There’s a lot of peace in deciding that “good enough” really is good enough. You’re allowed to stop overcomplicating things just because it’s the end of the year.

Permission to Rest Without Earning It

Rest is not a reward for finishing your to-do list. You don’t need to prove that you’ve done enough to deserve a break. You’re allowed to rest because you’re human—and because rest makes everything else feel more manageable.

Permission to Enjoy What You Enjoy

You don’t have to love everything about this season. You’re allowed to skip traditions that don’t resonate and lean into the parts that do. If something brings you joy—whether it’s quiet mornings, comfort food, old movies, or doing absolutely nothing—you’re allowed to enjoy it without explanation.

Permission to Let This Month Be What It Is

Not every December needs to be magical, transformative, or full of big moments. Some Decembers are quieter. Some are messy. Some are just fine. You’re allowed to let this month be exactly what it is without trying to make it something else.

Permission to Stop Comparing

Someone else’s December will always look different than yours—and that doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Different seasons, different responsibilities, different energy levels. You’re allowed to step out of comparison and trust that your pace is enough.

Permission to Leave Things Unfinished

You don’t have to tie everything up neatly before the year ends. Some projects can carry over. Some goals can wait. Some questions don’t need answers yet. You’re allowed to leave a little room for January.

Permission to Feel How You Feel

December can bring a mix of emotions—joy, nostalgia, stress, gratitude, exhaustion, or all of the above. You don’t need to force positivity or pretend everything feels great. You’re allowed to be honest with yourself about where you are.

Permission to Protect Your Energy

You’re allowed to say no. To leave early. To keep certain things to yourself. To choose what feels supportive instead of draining. Protecting your energy isn’t selfish—it’s practical.

Here’s the thing: Permission slips aren’t about lowering standards or giving up. They’re about recognizing that this season doesn’t require perfection. It requires presence. It requires honesty. And sometimes, it requires choosing yourself in small, quiet ways.

So if you’ve been waiting for a sign to slow down, simplify, or let yourself off the hook a little—this is it. Print these permission slips in your mind. Use them as often as needed. Share them generously. 

December doesn’t need more pressure. It could probably use a little more grace. And you’re allowed to start with yourself!