Christmas. For some people it’s 100% wonderful and for others, it isn’t.
It can be a difficult time of year, with plenty of potential for stress and panic. That’s why I wanted to share some ideas on how you can manage boundaries, stress triggers and your overall mindset during the festive season.
This Christmas may already feel a little odd depending how you’re choosing to manage Covid. You may be isolating already to keep family members (or yourself) safe for the big day. You may have had to make some difficult choices about who you do and don’t see this year. It’s easy to feel pressured by family, and not everyone will understand your perspective.
Possible triggers:
Being guilt tripped about not visiting your grandparents or parents when you think they’ll be safer if you don’t
Meeting up with family and then being quizzed on your life choices - when are you getting a new job, getting married, having a baby etc...
Accidentally under-investing in a family members present (vs. what they got you)
Running out of the good Quality Street chocolates.
The point is that there are lots of potential triggers at this time of year, some tricky and some more easily managed. So here’s some top tips for managing them:
Decide what your boundaries are now. Anticipate any likely triggers and what is and isn’t ok
Choose how to react. You can ignore it, grimace and move on, point it out. Pause and remember you’re choosing your reaction
Try not to trigger others unintentionally (or on purpose - retaliation can be tempting) - do your bit
Change the subject. It’s easy at Christmas and works a treat.
My intention isn't to worry you about potential negative conversations. Deciding where you stand, making a positive contribution, and being conscious how you choose to behave, all feel like things that will contribute to a lovely Christmas.
I hope you and yours have a fabulous festive period - I’m looking forward to seeing you on the other side to reflect on 2020 and get excited about next year! Merry Christmas!
P.S. With baby Hutchings due in January, the blog will now move from weekly to bi-weekly through to end April. I enjoy hearing from you so please keep replying - I’ll just be a little slower than usual getting back to you :)