For many of us, the holiday season conjures up a warm and cozy mental picture of watching movies by the fireplace, drinking warm beverages on a snowy afternoon and joyous family gatherings. But for many, reality doesn’t live up to these expectations.
The holidays can be a big source of stress. Between the pressures of traveling, countless gatherings, family drama and gift giving, it can be overwhelming. And for those who don’t have anyone to spend the holidays with or who have lost loved ones, this season can feel very lonely and isolating.
In case you need to hear it, here’s your reminder: it’s okay to not be okay during the holidays. That statement is true year-round, but there is often an unwritten expectation that we should be happy and at peace during the holiday season. The truth is that many people struggle this time of year. And many more are struggling this year as the stress of the pandemic takes its toll.
We’ve already made it through one pandemic holiday season. And many of us had high hopes that this year would mark the return of treasured holiday traditions that couldn’t happen last year because of COVID. But along comes the Omicron variant, just like the Grinch, to dash our dreams of a happy and (relatively) normal holiday season.
I find that during the holiday season and as we continue to deal with COVID, it’s important to really focus on the things that you can control. I might not be able to control what happens with COVID, but I can take steps to protect myself. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I can focus on what I’m thankful for and I can make time for the people and activities that bring me joy. And I can reach out for support when I need it. When we spend our energy on things that are within our control, we are better off – mentally and physically.
As we navigate this second pandemic holiday season, I hope that you are able to participate in the traditions that bring you joy. Maybe that means attending a festive family dinner or going caroling. Or maybe it’s time to create a new tradition that feels safe and comfortable for you. While this holiday season might not be what we expected, it can still be meaningful.
I wish you the merriest of holidays and I hope 2022 brings you comfort and joy.