Surviving the Holiday season
I had originally planned to post this blog on Thanksgiving Eve, however I overbooked myself and poorly planned which resulted in no blog post and limited social media interaction and content. I was off from Thursday to Saturday, returning to my part time job on Sunday. The rest was much needed which inspired this short blog post.
With Thanksgiving being so recent, now may be the best time to reflect on any interactions that made you feel any way, specifically, and negative way. Reflecting now can be helpful in determining how and what to do differently the remaining Holiday season. Also, reflecting now can be pivotal in prioritizing our mental health to survive the holiday season.
I will be sharing 3 tips on surviving the Holidays as the office parties, the shopping season, and family expectations may begin to increase. Making sure to remain centered is going to be vital to your mental health. Here are three tips to consider while surviving the holiday season.
3 tips for surviving the holiday season
Set realistic expectations for yourself. As stated above, while scheduling appointments for the week of Thanksgiving, I originally thought that I would be “fine” with seeing 7 clients back to back. One reason being because I was starting my day later than usual with my first appointment at 1:00 pm and the second reason being, I would be off the next day. What I did not consider was completing notes, family arrivals into town, and cooking my Thanksgiving meal contribution. By appointment 5 I was drained and over it and actually cut my last twi sessions to 30 minute sessions. Setting realistic expectations for yourself may look like saying “no” to certain activities or request, pacing yourself, or taking your time.
Establish and enforce boundaries. Google defines boundary as “a line that marks the limits of an area.” When thinking of boundaries to establish, consider what makes you feel uneasy, disrespected, angry, or sad. Place a “rule” to prevent those feelings in the future. An example of a clear boundary, particularly surrounding the holiday season may look like “I will not let my aunt bring me down by brining up past mistakes. If she does I will ask her to stop, and if she does not, I will leave the family gathering”. Boundaries are NOT demands or commands. Boundaries can also be flexible!
Make time for you and the things you enjoy. The holiday season can become very hectic with responsibilities that may result in you placing yourself and self care last. Avoid doing so, and schedule time for yourself to do things that you enjoy or rest. This may result in you returning back home at an earlier time or again, turning down invites, task, or chores. Two christmas’ ago, on the way from my moms to my in-laws I asked my husband to drop me home. I wanted to take a bath, light a candle, and enjoy the quite!
I’m curious to know, what do you do to survive the holidays or busy seasons in life? Your advice ma be helpful to others.
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Disclaimer: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, but I am not YOUR Licensed Clinical Social Worker. These blog posts are based on my personal opinions, reflections, and insights and are not intended to be taken as professional therapeutic intervention(s) and/or advice. Further, please note these blogs are not intended to serve as and/or replace formal counseling services. If you are in need or interested in taking part in direct therapeutic services, please contact your insurance provider’s customer service for assistance. You may also consult website such as (but not limited to) Psychology Today and Therapy for Black Girls to find a therapist. If you are located in NC, MD, SC, or VA and would like to work with me, click here to ensure I accept your insurance or check my rates and here to schedule an appointment.
