Dealing with the holidays after divorce or another major life change brings several challenges to the table. Perhaps this year looks different for your plans: you’re unable to travel to visit family, your children are in another household, or you’re missing the holiday traditions you’ve held for so long. These feelings may have you feeling down this holiday season, but here are a few tips to navigate the holidays with your new dynamic:
Start a new tradition
Maybe your children won’t be spending Thanksgiving Day in your home, but that doesn’t mean the traditions have to end! Start new traditions this year to keep things special and memorable over the holiday season. Whether baking holiday cookies, diving into a movie marathon, or celebrating the holiday early or late, your new traditions will make the transition feel like a fresh start. Giving your kids the opportunity to suggest new traditions will make the new holiday transitions special for them.
Spend the holiday with friends
My family lives 12 hours away, so traveling to visit for the holidays is not always possible. Even if your family lives closer, maybe there are other reasons that stop you from spending time with them this holiday season. Whatever the reason, finding community is still a wonderful way to beat the seasonal blues. Spend the holidays with your friends and loved ones, giving yourself the opportunity to really dive into those special relationships as well.
Give yourself a break
If getting out with your friends and family doesn’t sound like your cup of tea this year, give yourself the opportunity to really rest and turn off your responsibilities. Find your favorite movies, snacks, and drinks and settle in for a day of comfort. Practice self-care and do the things you enjoy but never have time for.
No matter what you choose, make it something that feels right to you. Give yourself the opportunity to find new peace in the holiday season, even if it looks differently than you envisioned. Be kind to yourself and embrace the change.