“Gratitude is a practice; remember it as you’re sitting around the holiday table wondering if you’re “really” related to these people😊.” ~LMB
As we enter the holiday season, chances are your time spent with family will be more than usual. For some people, a heavy dosage of family is trying, at best, while family time is a gift for others. Often though, even when family is a gift, there are moments when you probably want to “re-gift” your family to someone else for a while, lol. During those momentary familial frustrations, though, keep it all in perspective:
- Extend grace and non-judgment. Everyone has a family member or two who can feel a bit daunting to hang out with—give them grace; you can also have difficult moments.
- Find your peeps. Focus on the family members you’re excited to spend time with and enjoy their company—without excluding the others.
- Keep private family matters private. It’s not your place to share someone else’s story, nor is it their place to share yours (especially not at holiday celebrations). Honor this boundary always.
- Soak in the day(s). Many people are flying solo during the holidays and will be lonely. Take the time to appreciate the loved ones with whom you’re celebrating—be they friends, family, acquaintances, or strangers.
- Take a moment to appreciate the loved ones lost. Talking about loved ones who have passed away shouldn’t be taboo (or forced). If a memory comes up and you want to share it—do so. Many family members appreciate talking about their loved ones because it shows they’re not forgotten.
Holidays can be an excellent opportunity for family and friends to come together to celebrate and spend long overdue quality time together. Focus on the big picture, and don’t get caught in the minutia of petty issues, minor grievances, or childhood hurts. And if there are unprocessed issues, strained relationships, or any “hot-button issues’, stay away from those issues! There’s a time and place to work through problems, and holidays are not the time to do so.
Challenge: This holiday season:
- Practice gratitude whenever possible
- Avoid overdrinking
- Incorporate self-care
- Soak in all the love, laughter, and joy around you
Happy Thanksgiving to those who celebrate it, and Happy Holidays to everyone!