In short, the dynamics of your family may have set you up for feeling anxious when getting together with them again. And it's not necessarily that you don't care for everyone in your family. Even having a negative history with just one family member may force you to cope with anxiety before a family gathering. The holidays can be a wonderful time of the year. Visiting with friends and family, attending gatherings and celebrations, enjoying all the holiday food, exchanging gifts, and getting into the holiday spirit can bring joy and excitement to many. The holidays can also bring stress and anxiety, especially to those individuals who become nervous at family gatherings or may not get along with individual family members.
Politics, religion, and past family drama can often be the center of conversation at family holiday gatherings. These conversations might cause hurt feelings and arguments. Individuals long for belonging and feeling connected, especially during the holidays.
Here's how to grin and smile your way through family gatherings this season. Don't take it personally. That snide comment from your ex, the joke at your expense from your sibling — let them get personal, but don't take what they say to heart. ...
Keep it casual. ...
Don't compare. ...
Have a code word. ...
Make yourself useful.
Here are some tips for getting through it — and maybe even having fun along the way:
Remember, it's just one day. ...
Don't talk politics. ...
Remind yourself why you're there. ...
Don't feel you have to go deep. ...
Accept that distance is OK. ...
Lay off the alcohol. ...
Designate a wing person. ...
Be forgiving.
Set realistic expectations. You've heard about setting SMART goals, right?
Focus on gratitude. Identify one positive thing or a reason to be thankful for each member of your family. ...
Differentiate yourself. ...
Plan ahead. ...
Reflect. ...
Find a way to laugh
Watch a movie.
Be grateful and remember that many individuals spend the holiday alone. Use these moments to be thankful for having friends and family. Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!):