If you want to overachieve on the day and do more, great, but go easy on the baseline goal. Well, it looks like the holiday season is upon us (already??). We’re already in our 7th week of brand new Hallmark Christmas movies (yes, we’re fans).
Anticipate resistance from certain family members
Through reframing her approach, she learned not to let one treat derail her progress. Now, she relies on her healthy habits and foundations, allowing herself grace and avoiding perfectionism. This mindset will serve her well through the holiday season. Maintaining balance can be challenging on a regular day, let alone during the holidays. The key is understanding that there will be moments when you have full control and moments when you don’t.
Practice Saying “No”
Say you’ve found that your self-care baseline needs to include movement and some kind of journaling. You feel like garbage when you go more than a few days without moving. Limits can include how long you plan to stay at an event, what you can help with and what you cannot, or topics of conversation that should be avoided.
Reframing the Holiday Season: 6 Ways to Refocus on What Matters
While it’s frustrating, it’s not your job to fix their reaction. Your responsibility is to take care of yourself, and sometimes that means stepping Alcoholics Anonymous back from relationships that consistently disrespect your needs. Setting boundaries, especially with family, can be emotionally draining. After a tough conversation, it’s important to recharge and process your feelings.
- Instead, try to set more realistic expectations for yourself and those around you.
- For example, if your typical routine includes a 5x per week Peloton spinning habit.
- Navigating family gatherings can be one of the most challenging aspects of the holidays.
- Boundaries aren’t just about saying “no” to others; they’re also about saying “yes” to yourself.
- Maybe you plan to take a brisk walk, try snowshoeing, dance to your favorite songs in the bathroom, or do a quick yoga flow routine in your bedroom.
If you’re spending time with folks who are generally supportive, let them know of your baseline well being goals. For example “Hey mom/dad/sister/husband, I find that I’m able to show up for our family stuff in the best way when I baseline goal category. I’d love your support in encouraging me/joining me/not overtly trying to talk me out of it/reminding me”. Client B had struggled with binge eating, particularly on the weekends. If she indulged in a treat, she would often write off the entire day as a loss and continue overeating.
Embrace Imperfection:
First thing’s first, let’s squash the idea that boundaries are selfish. Boundaries aren’t selfish barriers — they’re a form of self-care that ultimately benefits those around you as well. It allows you to visualize your upcoming week and reframing holidays in early recovery determine in advance how you can set yourself. Using these types of phrases allows you to be direct without being harsh. They help you stand your ground while showing that you care about maintaining a positive relationship.
Remember, your well-being is just as important as the joy of giving and celebrating with others. By caring for yourself, you’ll be able to fully embrace the beauty of the holidays with those around you. Instead of stressing out about the holidays, why not reframe your approach and take back control to include both health and holiday cheer? Below, I’ve outlined a few strategies to help you approach the holidays mindfully and intentionally.
Remember, one indulgence or skipped workout doesn’t define you. Be kind to yourself, and know that you can always return to your habits. Before the holiday chaos ensues, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you. Identify your priorities, whether it’s spending quality time with family, enjoying quiet moments of reflection, or pursuing personal hobbies. Knowing your priorities will guide your boundary-setting decisions. Closely tied to balance and grace is the need to let go of perfectionism.
Preserving Your Holiday Bliss: The Art of Setting Boundaries
Whether it’s buying gifts, hosting parties, or traveling to see loved ones, it’s important to set financial boundaries that align with your budget. This might mean rethinking gift-giving traditions, finding creative ways to celebrate others, or simply saying no to certain expenses. Make this year the year you approach the holidays with confidence, calm, and balance.
By framing your boundary around how you feel, you make it easier for others to understand where you’re coming from. Sometimes, people will push back or try to convince you to change your mind around your boundary. Calmly repeat your boundary and avoid getting drawn into an argument. If you’re unable to meet someone’s request, offering an alternative shows that you care and want to stay connected in a way that works for both of you. Setting a boundary doesn’t mean ignoring how others might feel about it. By acknowledging their perspective, you show empathy while still standing firm in your decision.
Financial boundaries
Are you feeling anxious about everything you have to get done? Consistency, even in small ways, will go a long way in keeping you on track. Setting boundaries during the holidays is an https://glazecars.com/the-effects-of-alcohol-caffeine-on-dehydration-3/ act of self-love.