Special traditions often make the holiday season the favorite time of year for many people. Those traditions may include:
However, this time of year can be stressful for families dealing with internal drama. Snide remarks, political arguments, and opinionated relatives can make this a time of year you want to forget. If you’re chuckling, you get my drift. If you’re a bit upset, take a breath. No one’s family is perfect.
Carrying a chip on your shoulder year after year is a burden. If you’ve had a disagreement or fight with a family member, call, text, or send a Christmas card. Discussing a misunderstanding ahead of your family party can make it more enjoyable or, at a minimum, more tolerable.
Even with no family drama, you may still get annoyed with some of your relatives. Consider being grateful for another year together. This may be the only time of year you see them. Life is precious and can change in a second.
Sometimes we’re our own worst critics. Maybe things aren’t as bad as we think they are. Enjoy a little humor or a lighter outlook on things.
The holiday season is hectic. Family traditions, holiday performances, shopping lists, final exams, and your company’s year-end make it hard to enjoy the season. If you’re feeling stressed and losing sleep at night, increase your physical activity. Getting the endorphins flowing makes a big difference in how we handle stress. Get that workout in before your family event!
Trying to impress family members can be stressful and a lot of work. Connect with the family members you enjoy being around. Be cordial to all, but don’t go out of your way to be someone you’re not.
More than likely, it’s the same situation or comments from the same person every year. My uncle always told me I looked healthy, implying I was overweight. Realize when the game is beginning and walk away.
Everyone experiences different levels of stress and emotion this time of year. Things may be said or done in the heat of the moment. It’s probably not because of anything you’ve done. A smile, nod, or simple gesture can keep a situation from escalating.
Before going to your family holiday party, discuss with your spouse or other family members how long you plan to stay. As families grow and mature, accommodating everyone’s schedules is challenging. Consider taking separate cars in case someone wants to leave early or stay late.
Don’t let negative thoughts get you down. Stay positive and use tactics to keep the negativity to a minimum.
Unfortunately, I’ve experienced family drama during the holidays. While it can be hard to sit in the same room with a particular family member, put aside your differences for the kids. Think about the excitement the holiday brings to them. Spending time with their cousins and relatives creates memories that last a lifetime.
If the ideas mentioned above don’t work for you, it may be best to decline a holiday party invitation. At the end of the day, you must do what’s best for you. Taking on extra stress during an already busy time of year doesn’t make sense. Consider starting a new tradition that brings you more happiness.
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