Be aware of and address holiday stresses, and look for ways to connect and engage.
By Brandon Matthews
The end of 2024 is in front of us, and the holiday season is here and full of celebrations, family, friends, traditions, and excitement. I can already hear Linus telling Charlie Brown what Christmas is all about. The kids are making Christmas lists and hoping they didn’t make the naughty list. The Hallmark Channel is playing Christmas movies with the same plot in different locations with different actors over and over (and we love it). Christmas music is playing, the chestnuts are roasting on an open fire, and Kevin is Home Alone again. This season brings so much joy but not without its share of challenges. Along with the excitement, the holidays often remind us of what we don’t have, things that have changed, and people that we have lost. There is also an elevated awareness of the hurt, loss, pain, and pressures of life. This can leave you feeling more like Blue Christmas than it’s the hap-happiest season of all. As the season approaches, I want to encourage you to guard yourself in three areas:
Financially
Many feel the financial pressures of the holiday gifts, parties, dinners, and holiday clothes are all expensive and can add to the pressure. But it’s important to remember that what matters most is the connection, love, and spending time with the people who matter most. Focus on creating experiences and memories instead of making purchases.
Emotionally
The pressure to be happy during the holidays can feel overwhelming, but it’s okay to acknowledge these feelings. At the same time, Christmas offers opportunities to find joy in the small moments: a heartfelt conversation, a comforting tradition, or even giving to others in need. Don’t pretend that the sorrow doesn’t exist, but don’t miss the joy and peace that this season can bring if you make room for it.
Relationally
Do you ever feel like Clark Griswold when he said “Well I’m gonna’ park the car and get the luggage, and well, I’ll be outside for the season?” Family gatherings, while meant to be joyful, can bring up unresolved tensions, awkward interactions, and expectations that leave people feeling overwhelmed, ready to retreat, and to just be outside for the season. Instead of running from difficult relationships, set healthy boundaries. Focus on positive moments. Instead of getting caught up in expectations or past grievances, intentionally look for ways to connect and engage.
The pains and pressures of the holidays often come down to one or a combination of financial, emotional, or relational problems. By taking the time to identify our stressors, we can address issues head on and not allow them to take the joy of the holidays. So start today by setting healthy boundaries, focusing on what matters most, and by counting your blessings. I pray this this is your greatest holiday season of all.
Brandon Matthews is the For Tomorrow Program Director.