Valerie dreaded the approaching holiday season. Family get-togethers triggered her feelings of anxiety and wounded-ness. Since her divorce, she had been feeling exceptionally vulnerable.
Although the holidays can bring a sense of excitement and joy for many people, it can arouse feelings of sadness, stress and loneliness in others. From the hustle and bustle of cooking, shopping, and entertaining, to the social engagements and often unrealistic expectations, “’tis the season” can generate a not so merry and bright feeling in the hearts of many. Fortunately, there are things you can do to experience a holiday season that is more joyful, if you choose to do so.
Since our thoughts create our reality, it will pay to closely examine your thoughts during this time. You can choose to have different thoughts and feelings about the holiday season so that you rewrite the stories from your past and start to cre-ate new and happier memories.
If you find that the triggers or patterns from your past keep you stuck and repeat themselves every year at this time, choose a different way of interacting. Before you simply react (as you have many times before), challenge yourself to see things differently. Ask yourself, “What if I could see this situation from a different vantage point, more objectively or from the other person’s point of view?
Got the
Holiday
Blues?