4 Tips to Surviving Home for The Holidays for College Students

Emotions are running high – finals are never-ending and the semester is coming to a close, but the thing you’re dreading most is heading back home. Dinners with your extended family; the family members who somehow always tend to bring up politics, those who want to know everything about your life, awkward conversations with family members you haven’t seen since you were five, and parents who seem to loom over you like a dark cloud.?

Between 82-87% of college students do not live with their parents during their time in college.?

If you’ve moved away from your family to live on campus, perhaps in another state or even another country, you’ve likely established a new level of independence. You do things differently now—and that’s a good thing. It’s a vital step in creating the life you want.?

The challenge arises when it’s time to go back home… it feels like a threat to that independence, especially when family members or friends exhibit “toxic” tendencies. Oftentimes, the transitions and decisions cause enormous stress, anxiety, and insecurity for everyone.?

So we asked Paula Gabbert, a life coach with zant for some advice. We know that returning home for the holidays after being away at college can raise a range of emotions: excitement to see family and friends, nervousness about a loss of independence, and guilt about not spending enough time with family.

Here is what you can do to create a more meaningful time at home for the season:

Recognize and name your emotions → Journaling is an ideal tool for reflecting on your emotions and digging into how you are feeling and why.

Carve out time for yourself → When students return home, there is a tendency to fill every minute with activities with family and friends. Pampering yourself with a favorite activity will help you refuel.

Nurture your new college friendships → Don’t forget to stay connected to your new friends from college. They are experiencing the same range of emotions and can be a source of support.

Address uncomfortable situations with parents directly → Setting aside time to have meaningful conversations about expectations and boundaries helps your relationship with your parents mature and grow.

With a passion for working with college-age students and young adults who are navigating the many transitions and decisions that come during this period, Coach Paula provides the guidance you may be looking for. If you’re looking to talk to someone during this season or in the New Year, you can book a consultation with her at: https://user.zant.app/provider/profile/Paula_Gabbert