Guilt-Free Holidays
Dumping the Extra Baggage
Jingle bells and eggnog
cheers. The holidays are here. Along with the holidays come a slew of
party invitations, family obligations and less time for you. Start December differently by establishing joyful
boundaries for the holidays.
Set your intentions early
and say them loudly. What do you
like most about the season? The
least? What traditions do you wish to
celebrate? Who will support you in your
decisions? Feeling guilty starts and ends with us, not others. No one forces you to say yes to that third
glass of wine or another holiday party.
You may be surprised that when you state your true feelings how others
may actually agree with you!
Many of us make
decisions because we don’t want to hurt other people’s feelings. Don’t assume you know what others are
thinking. Perhaps suggesting a gift-free
holiday may bring relief to brothers and sisters. Speak up but also listen as to why others
feel the way they do.
Don’t dump your
guilty luggage on others. Imagine a
friend who is only attending dinner at your house because she feels obligated. Accept her decision rather than sending text
messages reminding her of the fun time she is missing. You would want the same love and support from
your friends.
Lastly, the only
person who can make you happy is you. No amount of eggnog will transport
you from your family’s home. If your
choices surprise or even disappoint others, they’ll get over it. Believe it or not, your in-laws will still
have a great holiday with or without you being there!
So, if you decide to
not invite a friend to dinner, or cook a certain dish for a party, be strong
and supportive. Give yourself
permission to be happy and let go of the negative energies that evolve into
guilt. Be generous to yourself by being
true.
Here’s to creating a
holiday that is truly you and enjoy every minute of it!
