Relaxed through Christmas, here’s how it can be done

‘Do you already know what you’re doing for Christmas?’ The annual question so near October, November. Christmas days ahead, fine atmosphere and expectations included. Because besides cozy celebrations, there is still often the stress surrounding these days. Family choices and division of labor, mutual feelings magnified over drinks. How do you tackle it?

Who are we celebrating the holidays with this year? Having to choose can be difficult. Especially with divorced parents or blended families, it can be puzzling. And it can also feel tough to keep everyone happy in the process.

Prepare

Family relationships can be complex and make cozy dining with family not a given. At the table back into the old system, the old relationships and roles. Moreover, the unspoken expectation: ‘it should be cozy’ can unconsciously create tension. And especially at Christmas, feelings can turn into a pressure cooker. It may help to think in advance about how to handle those days, should you find yourself dreading them. Tip: take the pressure off your pan in time!

How do you go into it relaxed? First step, start on time. Consult the filling of the holidays on time and discuss expectations. See if you can keep these expectations realistic. Then also dwell on what feels best for you or yours. What do you feel comfortable with? And yes, you will probably have to compromise but try not to forget your own desires in doing so. At what fulfillment do you feel okay (enough)?

Explain to family what these days do to you and what it means to experience “Christmas stress. This creates openness and breeds understanding.

When you prepare even a little bit, it already saves half your holiday stress. And you can enjoy the other half being together!

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