The festive season can be a wonderful time of year, but it can also come with a lot of pressure. We're all shown a similar picture: families crowded around a big table, laughter echoing around the house, everyone perfectly content, and full of Christmas spirit. A lovely idea, but for many, it’s not the reality, and that's okay.

Everyone connects and celebrates differently. Some people love a house full of family and friends, while others find joy in quiet moments alone. Some celebrate on Christmas Eve, some on Christmas Day, and for others, the date doesn’t really matter at all.

You might be someone who celebrates early, someone who marks the day with a video call to loved ones far away, or someone who keeps a Christmas dinner warm for those still working – the nurses, paramedics, crisis workers, care workers, waiters and waitresses, cleaners and countless others who keep the world turning.

Your version of Christmas might be going for a beach walk, watching your favourite film with a pizza, or simply taking the day to rest. Maybe you don't celebrate at all, and that's perfectly fine too.

What matters most is that your celebration, or your pause, feels right for you. You don’t have to manufacture a moment or situation this festive season. You don't have to fit someone else’s idea of what Christmas should look like.

Try to let go of the pressure this year. If your Christmas looks different from others, that doesn't make it any less valid.

Celebrate how, and when, you want to.