Holiday Expectations – Less is More

The holidays, the time of lights, music and food (and more food), family and friend outings and oh, so many expectations at a time when the sun goes down early, and we come and go in the dark.

I’m almost positive Simon and Garfunkel were writing about the November time change when they wrote The Sound of Silence. If you didn’t get this reference, check the lyrics and get back to me.

It’s November and if you are one of the lucky ones who made it to a Taylor Swift concert this month, I’m sure those bracelets are weighing as heavy on you as the expectations of creating the Best Holidays Ever. Like the snow tires you haven’t needed on your car yet, I’m here to remind you to put the breaks on those heavy expectations.

Setting Healthy Boundaries for the Holidays

What are your priorities?

Reflect and talk to your partner and kids about what makes the holidays special for your family. Maybe it’s seeing family you don’t always get to see, maybe it’s quiet family time or a favourite holiday tradition like a holiday movie marathon.

It’s okay to say no

Just because you got the invitation, doesn’t mean you have to go. If an event or gathering is going to cause more stress than joy, it’s probably not worth going to.

Set financial boundaries

The biggest tree, gift or dinner, the brightest light or most giant inflatable snowman isn’t going to make or break your holiday.

Set a budget for gifts, food, and travel and stick to it.

It’s so important to set strong boundaries and limitations so everyone gets the break they need. It is really important to get sleep, eat some good food and get outside for fresh air and exercise. And if all else fails… Shake it off, shake it off, shake it off.

Marnie Potter, RSW, MSW
ACT Learning Centre Social Worker

Finding Mental Health Support

If you or a loved one is struggling and in need of mental health support or crisis services, please see the directory below:

Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
Ontario Caregiver Helpline: 1-833-416-2273
The Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region: 613-238-3311
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 988