Best Self Family Post
A Pandemic Style Holiday
12/4/20
The month of December brings so much excitement, and this year, some serious challenges. If we focus on and prioritize these four areas, we can ensure we are making the most of this holiday season (and aim to come out stronger!).
Adding New Traditions. Anything you can maintain from your normal holiday traditions will be helpful, but we also have to open our minds this year to possibilities we haven’t thought of before. Some of your favorite activities that you may be used to doing, are just not options this year. That does not mean there aren’t other options. Some flexibility and creativity can bring major benefits, helping you to reinvent traditions and remember this unique period of time in a positive way. You can do this collaboratively with your family by asking your children about their ideas. This will make them feel as though they are a part of the conversation, thereby increasing their excitement.
Maintaining Relationships With Others. It is especially important to continue to maintain relationships with your family and friends. This is crucial, for decreasing loneliness and isolation. You can incorporate video calls or write letters to significant people in your lives. Plan virtual holiday parties with friends and family you are unable to see and who usually play a role in your holiday. This might mean eating holiday dinners over video, having a virtual ugly christmas sweater party, having a virtual game night, etc. Try to plan and schedule these in advance as different events to look forward to.
Getting Creative. Without the usual ways we fill time and have fun during winter, we have to get more creative with activities (that continue to keep everyone safe). Some examples of socially distanced activities outside the home may include visiting zoo lights, drive through light shows and drive in movies. Other activities that can be done at home with the whole family (all ages) include 1) crafts such as making ornaments, wreaths, gingerbread houses and cookies, 2) games such as holiday themed bingo, scavenger hunt, hide and seek with candy canes. 3) other holiday themed activities such as watching christmas movies or the virtual christkindlmarket. Finally, adjust the ambiance of your home by incorporating holiday specific scents (candles), flavors (peppermint, eggnog) and sounds (music).
Managing Our Own Emotions. Go easy on yourself! This holiday season will not look like any other holiday, for you or for others…and that is okay. Try to challenge your feelings of guilt by reminding yourself that you are doing the best you can in a difficult situation. Focus on what you are able to do and take things one day at a time. Focusing too far into the future and on what you can’t control will only increase feelings of stress, sadness and guilt. Finally, think about your own preferences and comfort levels surrounding different activities and gatherings. Don’t be afraid to say no to keep yourself and your family safe or identify alternative options that make you feel more comfortable.