The holiday season can be a joyous time filled with family gatherings and celebrations. However, after a contentious election period, interactions with family and friends may feel tense or emotionally charged. Here are five key pieces of advice from a therapist to navigate hot and sensitive topics while promoting healthy boundaries, respect, and self-care.
# 1. Set Clear Boundaries
Before the holidays begin, reflect on what topics you want to avoid in conversations. Politely communicate these boundaries to your family and friends. You might say something like, “I’d love to keep our time together focused on positive memories and shared experiences rather than discussing politics.” Setting these boundaries helps create a safe space for everyone to enjoy the holidays without tension.
# 2. Practice Active Listening
During conversations, especially when touching on sensitive topics, practice active listening. This means truly hearing what others are saying without immediately preparing a response. Acknowledge their feelings and opinions, even if you disagree. This approach fosters respect and understanding, making it easier to navigate potentially heated discussions.
# 3. Keep Conversations Light and Fun
Encourage light-hearted conversations by steering discussions toward enjoyable topics. Share funny stories, reminisce about past holidays, or engage in fun activities together. Games, movies, or cooking can be great distractions and help create a more relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable. Remember, just because the food can be heavy, doesn’t mean the conversation has to be!
# 4. Respect Differences
Recognize that everyone has different views and experiences. Approach conversations with empathy and respect, understanding that it’s okay to disagree. If a discussion starts to become heated, gently redirect the conversation to a topic that can bring joy rather than conflict. This demonstrates respect for others’ perspectives while maintaining a positive atmosphere.
# 5. Prioritize Self-Care
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Set aside time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s going for a walk, reading a book, or practicing mindfulness. If you feel overwhelmed during family gatherings, excuse yourself for a moment to regroup. Remember, taking care of your emotional well-being is essential to maintaining a positive attitude and enjoying the holiday season.
Navigating holiday interactions with family can be tricky, but with these strategies, you can help ensure that your time with family and friends remains light and enjoyable. By setting boundaries, listening actively, keeping conversations fun, respecting differences, and prioritizing self-care, you can create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that celebrates connection and togetherness.
Amy Moore MA, LPC-S
Clinic Director, The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Red Rock, Colorado Springs
For more practical strategies and tips to thrive this holiday season, check out the CVN Holiday Thrive Guide! From creating a comfortable home environment during a PCS move to managing holiday travel and staying connected with loved ones, this guide is here to empower military families with strategies to embrace the holidays with joy.
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Our Cohen Clinics offer personalized, confidential therapy for veterans and military families – including military spouses, children, caretakers, and others.