While self-care may seem impossible during holiday busyness, putting yourself first for even a few minutes can go along way toward relaxation and rejuvenation.

Give yourself permission to say no. Whether it’s a party invitation, a request to run an errand, or an extra project at work, remember that “no” is (almost) always an option. Before deciding you really have to say yes, ask yourself why you feel obligated—maybe it’s a good enough reason for you, but maybe it’s not. “Choose discomfort over resentment” is a sentiment author Brené Brown shared on Facebook this week. I absolutely love this advice. If you’re going to stew in resentment over agreeing to something you don’t have time for, you (and your relationship with the requestor) will be better off if you say you can’t do it.

Limit your time at obligatory events. For an event you can’t skip, plan to stay only a short time. The advantage of holiday busyness is that hosts understand if you can’t stay long. You can say you have someplace else to be and only stay 30 minutes (even if the place you have to be is the gym or your own home).

Set aside some time for yourself. Even if it’s only five or 10 minutes, taking time to do something special for yourself can be a great way to rejuvenate. A friend with young children once told me that taking an extra 15 minutes to style her hair and put on makeup could keep her calm and centered for the whole day. You could give yourself a foot massage with a tennis ball, take a bath instead of a shower, watch an episode of your favorite TV show, savor a piece of pie, call a friend, or just take a few deep breaths… The activity doesn’t matter as long as it’s something that you find energizing and will actually commit to doing.

Remember three good things. Challenge yourself to notice three good things each day. Don’t fret over making sure they are “worthy”—even small things like enjoying your cup of morning coffee or laughing at a cat video can make the list. You can keep a running tally through the day or make a mental list before bed. Noting good things throughout the day keeps me on the lookout for small pleasures, which usually brings my total well above three.