6 Relationship Tips For The Holidays
The Holidays are around the corner. Are you ready?
This will be the first holiday in a while that many of us will spend post-lockdown, at least in the United States. So while it is very exciting, things are a new normal.
Here are six relationship tips to help you have a more enjoyable holiday with loved ones.
Tip #1 - Set an intention.
Think in advance what is the intention you want for the holidays. Do you want to connect with loved ones? Do you want to rest? Do you want to cook delicious food for your family?
It is important to know your intention, and remember it, when things don’t go your way. For example, your flight gets delayed, or you feel annoyed at the kids or you feel overwhelmed, remember your intention.
Tip #2 - If you have a partner, have their back.
Be a team and have their back. Don’t join in with the family’s sarcasm and throw them under the bus. Protect them and have each other’s back.
Tip #3 - Be aware of social awkwardness.
Almost two years have passed since the COVID-19 pandemic started. For most of that time, our socialization has happened in front of the computer using video conferencing, with our small pod or in isolation. Our socialization skills are not quite back to normal.
Be aware of the signs of social awkwardness in yourself or your loved ones (girlfriend, boyfriend, partner, wife, husband kids). Examples, irritability, oversensitive, feeling self-conscious, having a hard time connecting with people, or wanting to be around other people but then finding it hard when you actually do spend time with them.
If you notice any of these signs, take a break away from people to help you reset.
Tip #4 - Take care of yourself.
There is a fine line, physiologically speaking, between excitement and anxiety, so while you may think you are feeling excited, you may in fact be feeling anxious, nervous, or over-stimulated by being around family and loved ones, and all the festivities.
Take care of yourself by either taking a walk, reading a book, taking a nap, meditate.
Tip #5 - Avoid polarized conversations.
People always say don’t talk about religion or politics at the dinner table. This year we have one more topic to avoid polarized conversations, and that is COVID including pro versus anti vaccines.
If you feel the need to say something to your loved ones, express your care for them and their health, tell them just that, and respect their choices.
Remember your intention for the holidays.
Tip #6 - Honor those who passed.
Many of us have lost loved ones in the past year due to COVID, or other causes. If that is you, my heart is with you.
Take a moment to honor those who are no longer with us by doing a small ritual, either light a candle in their honor or write them a letter with the things left unsaid.
I hope your Holidays are more enjoyable! And it is on you to make that happen.