(AP) — The holidays can be tough when things aren’t going well or you’re just not in the mood to follow the usual traditions. It’s important to know that it’s okay to do things differently. Whether you participate in an outdoor activity or ignore it all, you can make a difference this holiday season.

It is often the expectations of others that push us to continue celebrating in the same way year after year. When your family experiences a loss or change in circumstances, you may simply need to take a break. And that’s okay.

Whether you’re overwhelmed with emotions or overwhelmed with things to do, these are two good reasons to consider changing your traditions. This can be a real change for the upcoming holidays. Or it may be a change for just one year. Your life depends on you.

change things

If the above situation describes you, you are not alone. Many families adapt their celebrations as life progresses.

Change the food you serve or the time you serve it

If the traditional holiday meal isn’t working for you this year, change it up. Instead of turkey, try roast beef. Instead of stuffing potatoes and sweet potatoes, consider simple baked potatoes. Multiple pies can be simplified into one perfect pecan pie.

Change it up completely and serve your favorite comfort foods instead of the usual feast. Consider moving dinner to lunch or brunch. It’s your vacation and there’s no rule that says you have to stick to the same old routine.

Have a little feast

If a big holiday spread seems overwhelming, opt for a more intimate, scaled-down version. Skip the turkey and cook your favorite dishes in small portions or prepare a cozy meal with a roast chicken for just a few close friends or family members. Simplifying can relieve pressure and allow you to enjoy the day more.

Make it a day of service

Sometimes giving back is the best way to spend the holidays. Spend the day volunteering at a local shelter or helping an organization in need. Turning this day into a day of service can distract from your own challenges and bring a sense of fulfillment.

Try a change of scenery

If a vacation at home seems like too much, just go for it. Consider escaping to an Airbnb for a change of scenery. A quiet retreat, cabin in the woods, or beachside getaway can be a refreshing break from the usual vacation chaos and give you time to relax and recharge.

Take a day off

Purchase a holiday meal prepared at a local restaurant, grocery store or butcher shop to take the stress out of holiday cooking. This allows you to enjoy the holidays without spending hours in the kitchen, freeing up time to rest, relax or whatever you prefer to do.

Ask someone else to host

If you’re not ready to host this year, feel free to pass the torch. Let a family member or friend organize the holiday gathering. Consider a potluck where everyone brings their favorite dish. You can still participate in the celebration without taking on all the responsibilities. Stepping away allows others to explore cooking their favorite dishes, their version of mashed potatoes or give them the space to become great bakers.

Completely ignore all of this

This one requires some dedication but it can also be healing. If you really don’t want the vacation, you can skip work altogether. Spend the day watching your favorite movies and eating potpies in your pajamas. Sometimes taking the pressure off and treating today like any other day can be the most comforting choice.

Spend the day in nature

Instead of staying indoors, consider spending the holidays outside. A peaceful walk, hike, or even just sitting in a quiet park can be a calming way to celebrate the day on your own terms. A refreshing outdoor activity can help you cope with whatever you’re feeling.

Celebrate another day

If the day itself feels stressful, overwhelming, or just too intense, consider celebrating it on another day when things are calmer. Spacing out the festivities can take the pressure off the holidays and allow you to enjoy a more relaxing day.

Breathe gently

It’s important to remember that you don’t have to stick to the same holiday traditions every year, especially when life has changed or you just don’t feel up to it. Whether you’re overwhelmed, grieving, or not in the mood, you can adjust how you celebrate or take a break.

You have the freedom to change things up however you see fit, whether that’s cooking a smaller meal, turning the day into a service day, or even skipping the vacation altogether. You might find peace by spending the day in nature, getting away from it all, or celebrating another day. However, if you choose to approach the holidays, know that there is no right or wrong way to do it: what matters most is taking care of yourself and honoring what you need during this period.

Laura Sampson Little House Big Alaska is on a mission to teach modern, family-oriented home cooks how to give old-fashioned foods a makeover. She shares her passion for home cooking, gardening and family farming on her website and blog.