Helping others enjoy the holidays

Do you remember that Chandler (from Friends) did not enjoy Thanksgiving (or, well, any holiday) at all? If you do, you probably also remember that their friends did their best to make him feel included and tried to explain to newcomers that, for him, it was a challenging time for many valid reasons.

We wish to tell you that this season is marvelous for everyone. But the reality is that while some are having the time of their lives, others secretly (or not) have to deal with difficult memories, missing their loved ones, and feeling out of place. To them, this is a “Merry Whatever” season.

Maybe you don’t feel this way. But if you think you know someone who does, keep reading because you’re about to help them have a better time. This is our agenda:

?? Helping someone feel better on holidays

?? When situations repeat themselves

?? Unique holiday traditions from around the globe

?? Content recommendations for the holiday season

?? Helping someone feel better on holidays

The American Psychological Association found that 38% of people felt their stress levels increased during the holiday season. But… Why does this happen? ??

The answer to this matter is complex. However, we can summarize it this way:

?? We grew up in different types of families.

?? Our responsibilities during the season vary.

?? Financial burdens can make many people feel anxious.

?? Not everyone has their loved ones near them.

?? Challenging holiday past experiences.

?? High expectations.

?? History of mental challenges and complications.

How can you recognize somebody is having a challenging time during the holidays?

?? General irritability.

?? Lack of interest in social gatherings or canceling at the last minute.

?? Difficulty in concentration or making decisions.

?? Isolation and avoidance of holiday-related conversations.

?? General lack of excitement for things that usually bring joy (presents, dinners, parties, etc.)

Now that you know this, what can you do to make them feel better?

Don't be pushy:

Offer words of affirmation and genuine interest in being there for them, but respect their space and don't force them to attend gatherings.

Try new traditions:

Changing the usual family dinner for a movie, a serene walk by a park, and game nights could make them feel less lonely or pressured.

Just listen:

Sometimes, people don't want to share their feelings because they don't feel safe enough or just don't want to talk about it. Be there to listen when they need it.

Remind them of how great they are:

It's nice to see ourselves from the eyes of someone who loves us. Mention what you find unique and valuable from their presence in your life.

Set realistic expectations:

The pressure to create a perfect holiday experience can lead to stress. Help them focus on what is feasible and enjoyable.

?? When situations repeat themselves

“Why do I always end up with [this kind of person]?” “I always end up in this situation,” “I don’t understand why this always happens to me.” Do those questions sound familiar to you?

Now that 2024 is just around the corner, it seems like a valuable time to reflect on our patterns and what we can do to make the next year more mindful.

Let’s start by saying that if you often find yourself in repeated relationships, situations, or always getting the same outcome, you are probably the most common factor. So it’s you who needs to become aware of this pattern and do something about it.

After acknowledging this pattern exists, it’d be wise to become aware of the signs that could lead us to repeat that experience. Chances are you’ve normalized the so-called “red flags” for a while.

Let’s take relationships as an example. If you feel you always end up with the kind of person who hurts you or does not commit as much as you do, notice the signs that could tell you in the early stages that this person is not what you are looking for. And here’s the next step: ?? Develop your boundaries ??.

We know that when you meet someone special, you want it to last as long as possible. However, developing boundaries and being aware of your “non-negotiables” helps you experience healthier connections and communicate to others that some of their personality traits or actions are not acceptable to you.

?? Unique holiday traditions from around the globe

We live in a world so diverse and unique! Have you ever wondered how people on the other side of the globe celebrate the holidays? Well, buckle up because we have a list of the most curious celebrations ever:

1. Krampus Night (Austria and other Alpine countries):

In contrast to the cheery figure of Santa Claus, Krampus is a horned, semi-demonic creature who corrects misbehaving children. On Krampus Night (Krampusnacht), people dress up as Krampus and roam the streets.

2. Caga Tío (Catalonia):

This tradition involves a character known as Caga Tío, which translates to pooping log. A hollow log is decorated with a face and a hat. On Christmas Day, they beat the log with sticks to make it poop small gifts and candies.

3. The Christmas Pickle (Germany):

An ornament shaped like a pickle is discreetly placed on a Christmas tree, and the person who discovers it is bestowed with either a reward or good fortune for the upcoming year.

4. Roller-Skating (Venezuela):

In Caracas, Venezuela's capital, it is a tradition for many residents to roller-skate to early morning Christmas Mass or simply around the streets, which are often closed to ensure the safety of the skaters.

5. Night of the Radishes (Mexico):

The 23rd of December has established itself as a festive tradition in the Mexican city of Oaxaca for over a century. Mexican artisans skillfully carve oversized radishes into animals, nativity scenes, and even miniature buildings, adorning market stalls in the town plaza.

?? Content recommendations for the holiday season

Meditation

In our “Boundaries” program you can find many meditations to navigate, discover, and sustain yours. Here’s one of them!

Music

If you find it challenging to focus at work, or feel like you’re missing something this season, connect with the present through this sweet melody tonight before sleep.

This is all for the week! Since this is the last newsletter of the year, we want to thank you from our hearts because you have joined us on other editions.

We hope that our experiences, stories, advice, and fun facts have made your 2023 a better year, and that you start 2024 with awareness, joy, and motivation to keep achieving more goals.

We send you a big hug, and… Until next year!