Thriving through Unpredictable Holidays
Photo by: August de Richelieu on Pexels
Although it’s a challenge to survive the “holi-daze” on a normal year—let alone in 2020—it’s more of a challenge to thrive through them. However, thriving may not be as hard as it sounds. Most of us are experiencing increased lockdowns, which can present both an opportunity and a threat to rethink how we find meaningful connections, celebration, and the sacred in the coming weeks. Given that this special time of year promises to be a roller coaster of emotions, schedules, and long to-do lists, our team highlights six tips on thriving through this holiday season and how to find some silver linings among the silver bells.
1. Strength-based Agility
Continue to expect the unexpected. Be proactive and play to your strengths to create the connection and celebration you seek, but hold your plans loosely. Be agile and flexible to change, while also remaining true to yourself and your values.
2. Spiritual Practices
Maintain or adopt spiritual practices or rituals around the holidays that your household can still participate in (e.g., watching a service together, opening presents, playing games). Be intentional about breaking monotony and creating meaningful, awe-filled moments.
3. Loss and Grief
Approach feelings of grief, loss, and disappointment with compassion and grace. There may be moments when you don’t know whether to laugh or cry. Try a bit of both. Use mindfulness techniques to check in with your body and manage your emotions.
4. Supportive Relationships
Support your children and youth by helping them cope with uncertainty, regulate anxiety, and cultivate patience.
5. Positive Emotions
Pursue activities that will boost positive emotions like joy, gratitude, and humor to release tension and stress.
6. Generosity
Keep in mind the marginalized. Make sure to spend some time and effort to extend compassion and joy to others beyond those closet to you.
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