119. Struggling With The Holiday Doom and Gloom?

Hi friends! In Episode 119, we have Therapist Jim Beebe with us, and I share a bit about my struggle with the holiday season. I share about my childhood experience with Christmas time and how it still affects me now. I'm committed to thriving this holiday season! And I hope this episode and my conversation with Jim will encourage and help you thrive, too, no matter what circumstances you find yourself in this year. -Dani

Navigating Holiday Challenges: Embracing Imperfection and Setting Boundaries
Navigating the holiday season can be rough when hectic schedules and family and friend interactions can be high. The emotional struggles that often arise during this time of year can take a toll on us. In Episode 119, Dani and Jim address these struggles and discuss embracing imperfection and boundaries to do what is best for your health and well-being. Once you are well cared for, you can enjoy the season and fully set healthy boundaries. 

Several tips Jim shared:
1. Embracing the Complexity and Recognizing Our Power: There's no such thing as 'perfect,' and it's okay if we struggle.
Life brings difficulties, and the holidays tend to magnify these challenges, drawing a stark contrast between the hope, joy, and peace we want to experience and the stress we often feel. Setting realistic expectations is important as the cultural pressure to create a perfect, joyful experience can lead to anxiety and disappointment. We can release ourselves from unrealistic expectations by acknowledging that imperfection is a natural part of the human experience.

2. Addressing Family Dynamics: Expect the complicated family dynamics and drama that may come up.
Family gatherings can create moments of laughter and trigger us simultaneously. Jim suggests calibrating our expectations based on reality, recognizing that family dynamics don't magically disappear during the holidays. Setting boundaries becomes crucial in our interactions with extended and immediate family. 

3. Navigating Internal Struggles: We have permission to set healthy boundaries.
Unfortunately, the holidays can feel like an incubator for our internal struggles. Childhood memories, past traumas, and societal expectations can contribute to a sense of internal stress. Self-compassion and acknowledging the pain while seeking ways to nurture and care for our well-being is vital. 

4. Create Strategies for Self-Care: Be honest about your limitations- it's okay; limitations are not a sign of weakness but a sign of being human. 
Self-care is paramount to navigating the holiday season successfully. Finding a supportive tribe, participating in marathon meetings for those in recovery, and pre-planning exit strategies for toxic family situations. We can approach the holidays more resiliently by understanding personal boundaries and when to prioritize our well-being.

So let’s decide to bring a realistic mindset to our holiday season while we embrace imperfection, boundaries, and self-care. Remember, it's okay not to be okay, and finding moments of peace and joy within the messiness of life is where the magic is at. Cheering you on! Listen to Episode 119 now, and feel free to keep it on repeat as needed 😉