5 Ways to Survive, and THRIVE, this Holiday Season

family happiness Nov 23, 2019

Let’s face it, the holidays can be challenging. Even the most “functional” families still have their issues, clashing personalities, and differences of opinions. But of course the holidays can also be a wonderful time of relaxation and family bonding. So, whether you’re spending the holidays with family, friends, or on your own, this article has something for you!

Try to make this holiday season the best one yet with these 5 ways to survive, and even thrive, this holiday season.

  1. Keep your expectations reasonable. Don’t expect your friends or family to have changed. The same person who drove you crazy last year with questions about why you’re still single or why you chose “that” job, or whatever, will probably drive you crazy again this year. Plan on it and don’t let it get to you. You might even try to find some humor in the situation.
  2. If you’re spending time with family or friends, try to focus on what you appreciate about each other. It’s all too easy to get caught up in focusing on what you’re irritated by. Challenge yourself to find something you like about each person you’re around for the holidays. Focusing on the positive does great things for the mind and body!
  3. Be prepared. Don’t want to talk about your career goals, relationship status, or something else you find awkward or uncomfortable? Prepare a canned answer. “I was thinking someone might ask about that, but I don’t really have any new information for you. But hey, I heard you just moved. How’s the new house?” See what I did there?! You politely deflect the question and then get the other person talking about themselves. OR maybe you have news you want to share with your family. It helps to be prepared with what you want to say, who gets to find out your interesting news first, and how to handle follow-up questions. Remember, you are allowed to have boundaries in terms of what you do and do not share. Make sure you’re sticking to what feels comfortable to you.
  4. Don’t be afraid to get away. If you need a little alone time, take it! You should not feel required to spend time with your family 24/7. Have some ideas in mind ahead of time of what you to do if you need a break. Plan to take a walk, call a friend, or go on a drive, if you need some space. If you’re travelling for the holidays, do a little research on where you’re going and make plans to go on a solo adventure, or invite your family to come along. Doing an activity together can be a great way to make new memories and have fun together.
  5. For those who are alone for the holidays, use this as a time to do something you’ve been wanting to do but haven’t had the time: exercise, plan a trip, take time to relax, practice a new language, read a book for fun, get a massage, write a story, journal, meditate, or write down your goals for next year.

Whatever the situation, try your best to enjoy time with your family, friends or your alone time!

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