When the Season of Joy & Peace Doesn’t Feel Joyful or Peaceful
Sometimes the holiday “merry and bright” can cause your heart to ache instead of swell with joy.
If that is your experience during this season, know that you are not alone. It is completely understandable to feel grief, loneliness, frustration, and hurt during a time that often seems to leave little room for difficult emotions.
Below, you’ll find our gentle suggestions to help the holidays feel a bit more manageable, especially if this season is starting to feel overwhelming.
Notice your triggers
Becoming aware of what stirs up difficult emotions can help keep you from situations that may cause you more harm than good. When you notice yourself feeling triggered, you can give yourself permission to step away, take a breather, and return when you feel ready.
Lean into what helps you feel supported
What brings you comfort when you are feeling anxious, sad, or hurt? It could be spending time with a loved one, listening to music, taking a nap, or enjoying a walk. Discover what soothes your heart and make space for more of these things this holiday season!
Communicate your boundaries
Boundaries are not selfish; they are wise. What might you need to say no to this season? Boundaries can help keep your tank from running empty. When you intentionally communicate your boundaries, you can show others that you still value them, and need to protect yourself from burnout at the same time.
Be vulnerable with your safe person
Feeling seen and heard can always uplift a weary soul. Reach out to someone you trust and let them know how you’re really doing. You don’t have to walk this hard season in isolation ❤️
Practice forgiveness
Forgiving others can be difficult, but it is worth it. Forgiveness is not only for the receiver, but for the giver as well. Forgiveness allows your own heart to grieve, release, heal, and move forward with less weight.
Use mindfulness strategies to stay present
Try simple grounding strategies like box breathing or the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique. These activities can help calm your body and take you back to the present moment. Small moments of stillness can make a big difference!
Reconnect with your values
What are the core values you live by? Take a look at this list and choose your top 3. Ask yourself how you can practice these values this season. When your actions align with your beliefs, each day feels a little more meaningful.
Consider counseling
You do not have to walk through this season alone. Trained professionals are here to support you. Reach out to us at Novo Life if you want someone to walk through this hard season with you. We are here for you!
Prioritize self-care
During busy seasons like the holidays, self-care can get put on the back burner. Remember that you deserve to be taken care of, too. Slow down and take time to do things that fill your own cup. Self-care is always necessary, but especially during hard times.
Taking these little (and big) steps can help you get through this holiday season one day at a time. It’s okay to not be okay. You don’t have to hide your feelings. You are doing the best you can, and that is enough. ❤️
Additional Resources
Check out the books below to find compassionate support for moving through grief and seasons that feel different than you expected.
It's OK That You're Not OK by Megan Devine
It's Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst
Try Softer by Aundi Kolber