Holidays Uncensored: Facing Life Without the Escape

The holiday season—supposedly the “most wonderful time of the year.”

But let’s get real.

This time of year can stir up a storm inside. You’re surrounded by forced cheer, the pressure to be “on,” and the old voices telling you to just go with the flow, take the edge off, grab a drink.

But if you’ve been on this path for a while, you know where that “escape” leads: a dead end.

There’s nothing quite like the holidays to remind you of all the ways you’ve felt trapped in the past. Trapped in habits that kept you numb, in choices that left you empty.

I know, because I’ve been there, pouring another glass, thinking I could drown out what I didn’t want to feel.

This year, let’s do it differently. Let’s ditch the numbing and take the holidays head-on, exactly as they are.

My Journey Through the Holidays Then and Now

I used to walk into the holidays ready to be “fun” Tricia—the one who had a drink in hand and didn’t feel a damn thing. For a few hours, it was easy to believe I was carefree, to play the part.

But the next day? That was the reality check. Hangovers, regrets, that same old shame creeping back in like an unwanted guest.

Now?

It’s raw, it’s real, and I feel everything.

No filter, no escape, just me showing up as I am.

The holidays still bring up memories, nostalgia, even the sting of those old urges. But now, instead of running, I face it.

I’ve learned that by staying present, by letting myself actually feel the hard stuff, I’ve found a strength that no drink could ever give me.

I know who I am, and I’m done playing small.

Navigating Social Situations and Finding Your Ground

Let’s talk about taking control.

If you know the pressure’s coming, if you know there’ll be people pushing drinks into your hands, you’ve got to be ready. Here’s what I’m bringing to the table this holiday season—and what I suggest for anyone ready to step out of the haze and into clarity.

1. Own Your Limits and Limitations: Say it with confidence. “I’m good with my water, thanks.” You don’t owe anyone an explanation. You’re here on your own terms, and that’s powerful.
2. Make New Rituals: The drink in hand used to be my crutch; now I’ve got rituals that actually ground me. A hot cup of herbal tea, a mocktail I look forward to, or five minutes alone in fresh air. You deserve traditions that serve you.
3. Bring Your Tribe: Whether it’s a friend, a partner, or a quick text to someone who gets it, make sure you have someone on standby. A little solidarity goes a long way when the world’s telling you to cave.
4. Get Real With Yourself: When you feel that old urge rising up, try this: put a hand on your chest, take a deep breath, and remind yourself why you’re here. Why you chose this path. Every “no” to that drink is a “yes” to your peace and power. Own it.

Redefining the Holidays for Yourself

What do you want this holiday season to really mean for you?

Strip away the noise, the expectations, the old stories about how you’re “supposed” to show up.

Who do you want to be?

What version of the holidays feels true to you?

Forget about what everyone else is doing. This is your chance to rewrite the script , to make choices that align with where you’re headed, not where you’ve been. This season, let’s turn down the volume on what doesn’t matter and crank it up on what does.

A Call to Connect and Grow Together

If any of this hits home, let’s talk.

You’re not alone in wanting something real this season.

You don’t have to navigate the push and pull of the holidays alone.

If you’re ready for a different kind of holiday—one where you don’t just survive, but actually feel alive—let’s connect.

Whether it’s a conversation, a community, or a little bit of hard-earned wisdom , I’m here.

You deserve a holiday season that’s unapologetically you, no numbing required.

?? Ready to dive deeper? Check out our resources, or reach out.

This is the year you show up for yourself—no filters, no BS.

Tricia Parido

CEO | Mental Health Practitioner | Master Addictions Specialist | Psycho-Nutrition Consultant | Licensed Credentialing Instructor (TAA) | Trainer & Mentor

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