A Holiday Survival Guide
With Thanksgiving only a few days away, conversations about gratitude and thankfulness seem to be everywhere. It's a time of reflection, family gatherings, and traditions that are meant to bring us closer together. But for many, the holidays can feel overwhelming—stirring up stress, sadness, or even a sense of inadequacy.
If that’s where you find yourself, you’re not alone, and it’s OK to feel this way.
The Pressure of the Season
Thanksgiving, and the holiday season, often carry an unspoken expectation to feel joyous and grateful. Social media floods us with picture-perfect tables and smiling faces, making it easy to believe everyone else has their life perfectly together. But gratitude doesn’t always come easily, and that’s normal. Life is complicated, and the holidays can amplify challenges like grief, loneliness, financial stress, or strained relationships.
It’s OK to Just Survive
First, permit yourself to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. Gratitude isn’t a one-size-fits-all emotion—it’s not something you can force. Sometimes, surviving the day is an achievement in itself, and that’s enough. Allow yourself to release any guilt for not feeling as “thankful” as you think you should.
Gratitude doesn’t have to be grand or all-encompassing; it can be quiet, fleeting, or even absent. There’s no wrong way to experience the holidays.
Simple Steps to Navigate Overwhelm
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are a few gentle techniques to help you find balance—or at least make the day feel manageable:
Pause and Breathe
When the stress feels like too much, take a moment to ground yourself. Close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four, hold for four, then exhale for four. Repeat this cycle a few times. Deep breathing can calm your nervous system and bring you back to the present.
Focus on the Smallest Joy
Gratitude doesn’t have to be monumental. Maybe it’s the warmth of your coffee, the sound of laughter in another room, or even the coziness of your favorite sweater. Acknowledge these tiny moments—they’re valid sources of joy.
Set Boundaries
It’s OK to say “no.” Whether it’s to an event, a conversation, or even a task that feels like too much, protect your emotional energy. Boundaries are an act of self-respect and self-care.
Take Breaks
If gatherings feel overwhelming, step outside for fresh air or retreat to a quiet space for a few minutes. Giving yourself a breather can help you recharge and face the situation with a clearer mind. I tend to do this a lot around the holidays, and also at large events and gatherings.I often need a break from all the noise and commotion
Connect Authentically
Find someone you trust and share how you’re feeling. Sometimes, simply voicing your emotions can be a relief. You might be surprised how many people feel the same way.
Practice Self-Compassion
Be kind to yourself. Talk to yourself as you would a friend. Remind yourself that it’s OK to not be OK and that this moment doesn’t define you.
Finding Gratitude on Your Terms
If you’re able, look for gratitude in the simplest of ways. Maybe it’s in the love of a pet, the comfort of your favorite book, or the fact that you made it through another day. Gratitude doesn’t have to erase your struggles—it can coexist with them. And on the days when gratitude feels out of reach, remember that your worth is not measured by how thankful you feel.
A Holiday Reminder
The holidays can be complex and emotional, and your feelings—whatever they are—are valid. Take things one step at a time. Whether you find gratitude or simply make it through the day, both are victories. You are enough, just as you are.
Happy Thanksgiving to you, in whatever way feels right for you this year.
Do you have any special tools you use to help reduce holiday stress and overwhelm? If so, I love to hear about them in the comments.
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