You are not alone
if the holidays bring up
feelings of sadness, grief,
rejection, lonliness, fear
jealosy, discomfort, anger,
and the list goes on
including happiness and
gratitude.
If you are tired of
feeling like a victim
every holiday,
remember,
nothing changes if
nothing changes.
Awareness is key.
The first time a holiday
became something difficult
you were likely caught off
guard. Now, you are
aware and can prepare.
Basic needs first and
foremost. Meeting your
own basic needs (food,
clothing, shelter, safety,
belonging, oxygen, water,
and purpose) will give
you a foundation to
build on.
You can not control
what other people
think, feel, or do BUT
they have no control
over your thoughts,
feelings, or actions
either.
Choose to participate
in special days, events,
or holiday activities
that validate you and
do not put your
basic needs at risk.
(food, clothing, shelter,
safety, belonging,
oxygen, water,
and purpose).
Give every holiday,
event, and special day
a purpose you agree
with, and focus on
that the entire time.
When your mind
wonders to unpleasant
things or someone
tries to draw you into
chaos, drama, or
trauma repeat
"I am here to
fill in the bank"
Have an exit plan.
Decide ahead of time
when you need to leave.
Maybe it is when so and
so shows up. OR
when the conversation
becomes about such
and such OR at a
specific time OR
After 2 hrs.
Regardless, commit
to your plan and
don't let feeling shame,
guilty, or FOMO change
your mind.
Final thoughts,
what you do for the
holidays should always
be your choice.
Holidays should be a
time of pause, reflect,
celebrate, and/or enjoy
your blessings.
How you do that is
up to you.
stay home
go out
visit others
welcome visitors
sit in your feelings
have fun
rest
create memories
do everything
do nothing
You are not alone.
We are all trying to survive
the holidays too.
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