Everywhere you look, there are reminders of what the holidays should be: a time for smiling families to gather around a perfectly set table, sharing laughter, gifts, and memories. In a perfect world, grief never shows, traumas are never spoken of, and everyone gets along like the best of friends. Real-life families are more complicated. The holidays bring you together, but can also stir up feelings of grief, anxiety, or anger.
Trying to juggle all these emotions can be more chaotic than festive. You can change that with a few tips to help you truly enjoy the holidays:.
- Take time for self-care; if you start feeling stressed, go for a walk, listen to music, read a book, or find a quiet place to meditate.
- Find your joy; focus on what makes you happy around the holidays, even if they’re small.
- Set realistic expectations; embrace the imperfections that give your family its unique personality.
- Don’t overload yourself; family fun and holiday activities are a blessing, but know when you need a break.
The stress and sometimes dysfunctional dynamics of our families are just a part of the holiday scene. But they don’t have to be the headliner. Focus on all the wonderful traditions, happy times, and memories you make each year!