It is all too common to experience bouts of inadequacy during the holidays. Most of us have experienced plenty of days when everything seems a bit difficult and no one seems to notice, or care, that we are struggling. Worse yet, we allow these feelings to be magnified this time of year when we believe others are celebrating joyful relationships with family and friends, while we struggle alone.
Here is a practical guide to avoiding potential holiday despondency:
- Own your situation and surroundings. During the holidays, or any other time for that matter, be where you are because you want to be there. If you are in a position of having to honor an obligation, remember why you chose to see it as an obligation and how it is important to you. It’s easier to find gratitude when we take responsibility for our own choices.
- Acknowledge those around you. The quickest remedy to feeling unappreciated is to express appreciation for someone else. You will quickly forget how badly you feel about yourself by brightening someone else’s day.
- Plan ahead to connect with those you love. Schedule in 2 or more events where you will have meaningful connections with people who are special to you. Whether it’s through a conversation, a party, or a simply sharing a laugh over a movie, knowing you have plans to celebrate your connection with others will brighten your winter days and keep the negative talk at bay.
Remember, you are loved! Sometimes, it takes a little extra effort to feel whole. So why not take that extra effort for yourself today? You are worth it!