How to Handle Stressful Family Dynamics This Festive Season

Christmas is right around the corner, meaning families across the world will be coming together to celebrate the holiday.  This sounds fun, right? People come together to enjoy good food, reconnect, enjoying the feeling of being together. Well, for a lot of people, this is not the case. This blog delves into how you can handle stressful family dynamics this festive season. 

For some, Christmas time can become extremely stressful. Especially when around family members they aren’t necessarily comfortable or friendly with. 

Every family dynamic is different. And there is no one formula for a perfect Christmas. That’s why it can be so difficult for people to navigate their feelings and enjoy the festive season, the right way. Because how do you find support that is personal and specific to you? 

How can you handle stressful family dynamics this Christmas?

I’ve collected several tips over the years. These have helped my clients make the most of this time of year, and I’d love to share them with you. 

So, here are 4 top tips on how you can have a Christmas you enjoy when you are struggling. 

Live in the moment instead of dwelling on handling stressful family dynamics  

All too often we over-exert and over-extend ourselves just to please others and make moments perfect. This is something that frequently happens around Christmas time. Especially when buying presents or even hosting the family dinner. There can be a lot of pressure and stress that is placed on you, causing you to exhaust yourself. 

This year, try to live in the moment. Try not to have too many expectations about how it “should” be. Do what will make you happy and the happiness of others will flow freely around you.

Different expectations  

We all enjoy Christmas in our own unique way; some like to drink, others do not, some celebrate on Christmas eve rather than the 25th. 

What can we take from this? 

Everyone has different expectations. 

You won’t ever be able to please every single person. So, don’t try to. In its purest form, Christmas is a time of love, giving, and sharing. Take this opportunity to make lasting memories with those around you. Notice the people around you and accept them for their uniqueness. 

Learning to let go of what doesn’t matter  

It’s time to become more minimalist.  

Hosting the family dinner and didn’t cook the potatoes as well as usual? That’s ok. Didn’t get the reaction you wanted from a family member when giving them a present? That’s also ok.  

These small moments that frustrate us end up building and building until we are completely overwhelmed with stress. But in reality, overcooking a potato or not finding the perfect gift for someone is not a bad thing and shouldn’t be allowed to define our happiness. 

So, this year try to accept the moment for what it is and let go of the unimportant things that cause you unnecessary stress.  

Financial implications  

Christmas is the one time of year where people love to spend, spend, spend. Because of this a lot of unwanted pressure can end up being thrown on your shoulders. For many, the gift-giving can leave a huge dent in their finances and leave them feeling stressed more than anything. 

So here are some things you can do to make this Christmas one that isn’t all about finances: 

• Set a budget: Talk with your family members and settle on a budget for each person, this way there aren’t any expectations or pressures. 
• Get creative: Giving isn’t all about materials so, why not get creative? Perhaps you could make your own Christmas cards this your or even a present for someone.  
• Talk to someone: Don’t suffer in silence. Make sure you confide in someone if you are worried about finances this Christmas. What we need to be asking ourselves is, ‘how can we create a Christmas that isn’t emotionally stressful, for ourselves and those around us?’ The most important thing about the festive season is everyone having a good time and enjoying themselves. It’s really that simple. 

This year, focus on what is important and let go of things that are troubling you or getting in the way of you enjoying the moment. 

What will you do differently this year?

If you need to book in and see me before Christmas, get in touch today. I have a 20% off voucher for anyone that signs up in December. I can help ease those festive worries for you. I can also give you some valuable coping mechanisms to see you through Christmas and together we can make 2022 your best year, the year you let go of the past and make your future exactly what you want it to be.