How Long Do We Have to Stay?
Holidays and family visits go hand in hand, and I want to share five tips so that this can truly be “the most wonderful time of the year”.
Discuss expectations ahead of time. Many frustrations, disappointments, and misunderstandings can be avoided if we have some conversations ahead of time about holiday and family events. This is the time to share what we want or hope.
Answer the question, “If nothing else, I would like to . . . ?” This helps us prioritize what is most important and learn how to share with our family.
Identify or recognize if there are areas of loss or grief that make this holiday season different, or that will impact you during this time.
Create new traditions, especially if there are changes in life that impede old traditions. Adding something new can rejuvenate the holiday and our relationships.
Remember that multiple things can be true at the same time. We can be frustrated with family, and still choose to be neutral or civil over the holiday. We can disagree with family and choose not to highlight or discuss the differences.
I want to add a 6th tip that will probably be the most helpful.
Self-Care. Know yourself, be honest with yourself, challenge yourself to grow and be stretched during this season. Lean into God, and take the moments you need to be a gift and blessing to others this season.
— Tracy Paulino, Licensed Mental Health Counselor