By Sherry Ellingson
Holidays can be challenging for most people. We all want them to be warm, fuzzy and fun.
It just isn't that way, and if yours' is amazing that's great and you probably don't need to read this :).
Holidays are a time when family can come together to celebrate the season. It's really a time to put differences aside and be there for each other. Communication is a big part of these gatherings. We can a lot of fun or it can get down right ugly.
So here are my suggestions to navigate the Holidays with communication that is less hostile and more centered.
The basic step for any communication to work is: are the people involved willing to have a cohesive relationship? In reality are they willing to put down differences and enjoy the day?
How are you feeling is the next important area to explore. Are you drained from your life and running on empty? The most loving thing you can do for yourself is to opt-out of the gathering and instead do something that will fill your emotional bucket.
Lastly if you choose to host/go to a gathering try not to engage in conversations that you don't agree with. Fighting, arguing, and yelling is not going to change anyone's mind on anything. Not engaging is another form of self-care. You can use statements such as :
I'm not ready/willing/wanting to have this conversation.
This is not a topic I want to discuss at this time.
or
simply take a break and leave the room to take a few breaths and recenter and when ready return.
Thank You for Reading!
Sherry Ellingson
Business. Career. Money fun
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