The holiday season is thought of as a time to celebrate and spend time with loved ones. This can be difficult for many people for a variety of reasons. If the holidays are a difficult time for you, and you are willing to try something that may help make things more manageable, continue reading…

In hearing how other people have conquered their difficulties during holidays, I have found one thing to be true for most everyone: If you can change the way you look at the holidays and make them mean something for you, rather than what everyone else views them to be, they can feel less overwhelming. Mold the holidays to your needs rather than molding yourself to the holidays. In doing this, it becomes easier to appreciate the good and let go of the difficulty. Below are seven ideas on how to do this to make your holiday season more fulfilling:

1. Reflect on what you are thankful for. It can be as simple as the food on your table.
2. Focus on what matters to you. Can you mold your plans to fit your values?
3. Recognize the people in your life that are supportive and positive.
4. Appreciate what your limits are. If you know that after 2 hours you will be too overwhelmed to enjoy yourself, give yourself permission to leave after 1 hour and 45 minutes so that you won’t get overwhelmed.
5. Give yourself permission to say “No” if what is being asked of you is making you uncomfortable. Be proud of yourself for being able to say no.
6. Take time to be “lazy”. Enjoy that free time doing something that is relaxing.
7. If you are someone that likes to make everyone around you happy, this is a time to speak up. Communicate your thoughts so that you are heard and you can be happy as well.

I realize that to get to a place of feeling happy isn’t as easy as trying these seven ideas out; however, it is a step in the right direction. Do what you can and nothing more. Go easy on yourself this season. It can be stressful enough on its own.

Author: Alison Silvius Casanova LMFT

I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, and I enjoy supporting people in finding solutions to everyday problems. I work with people of all ages that struggle with social skills, are affected by addiction, and have suffered trauma/loss. My areas of interest include cognitive behavioral therapy, self esteem building, improved communication in relationships, grief/loss, and more. You can read more about me on my page at: www.alisonsilviuslmft.net