5 Tips to Thrive During The Holidays

The holidays can be a season of joy, connection, and tradition — but they can also bring unique challenges, whether it’s grief, strained relationships, financial stress, or simply feeling overwhelmed.

If you’ve experienced the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or you just can’t make it home for the holidays, it’s completely normal to feel triggered this time of year.

Part of why we can feel triggered is because the holidays are steeped in tradition. There’s stimulus all around us — from festive lights and special meals to holiday music and gatherings — and we’re often pulled out of our typical routines. This season brings a mix of slow, reflective moments and chaotic activity, all while reminding us of times when things were different — for better or worse.

There’s also an unspoken expectation that the holidays should be fun, happy, and exciting. So when we don’t feel particularly cheerful or even downright terrible, we might fall into the trap of making ourselves wrong for having those feelings.

We’re often told from an early age to “be strong” — to pretend we’re fine. But what does it mean when we don’t feel “strong”? When we show our true emotions, like sadness, longing, or loneliness? It means we’re human. It means we’re feeling — and while that can be scary, it’s the only road to healing.

The longer we avoid our pain, the louder it gets. Avoidance is what makes us sick. We push it down again and again... but eventually, it has to come out.

So, what if this holiday season we gave ourselves permission to feel instead of trying to "be strong"? What if sharing our true emotions allowed others to share theirs, too? The holidays are a great time to practice because emotions naturally come up during this time of year.

Here are 5 tips to help you thrive during the holidays without diminishing your feelings:

1) Do something nice for yourself.

Have you considered getting yourself a present or doing something kind for you? Think about what would bring you joy. It could be going on a trip, getting a massage, or curling up with a good book or movie. Whatever it is, schedule it — because you deserve it.

2) Create a new ritual.

This is the first and only winter holiday season of this year. What new thing can you do to make it special? Play a game, see a movie with friends, bake something fun, or start a tradition that feels meaningful to you.

3) Honor a loved one’s memory.

If you’ve lost someone, find a way to include their presence during the holidays. Set a place for them at the dinner table, do something they loved, or share stories about them with others.

4) Clear your clutter.

Cleaning and decluttering can be incredibly helpful for creating space — physically and emotionally — as you prepare for the holidays. Plus, it can leave you feeling lighter and more at peace.

5) Do something nice for others.

One of the best ways to help yourself is by helping others. Volunteer at a local shelter, nursing home, or food bank, or donate gently used items you found while decluttering. Acts of kindness can bring joy to others and to yourself.

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