So much is about the way you think about it. Changing the way you think changes the way you feel. Instead of thinking “I should do this ….’, “I must do that …” it is much more effective to think “I could do that (or not).”

This creates an opportunity to choose; having a choice is empowering. It can ease the stress or resentment you may experience when you think you have no choice. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to discern and consider options like simplifying, modifying, cutting back or just saying ‘No,’ and this can create more time for other things.

“I could use real dishes”, rather than “A beautiful yom tov table must have china.” Beautiful Pesach memories can be made around a dining table of plastic plates and cutlery. Conversely, memories of washing dishes all Pesach are not all that exciting.

Another way to change your frame of mind is to remind yourself of the times that you did accomplish lots in short amounts of time, rather than focusing on how much is left to be done.

One more strategy is to focus on positive aspects of the situation. Instead of dreading how much time it will take to clean and cook and cook and cook, think about how much you appreciate having your family together to celebrate yom tov, and part of that means that there is some hard work involved.