You Are Not Your Parent.
Maybe your mom had every holiday tradition down to a science—homemade pies and all. But here's the thing: you're not her, and that's completely okay! You can love your childhood traditions and still make new ones that feel right for you. Be yourself. Your way is great.
No One Is Judging You.
It's easy to feel like everyone's watching, especially when you scroll through picture-perfect Instagram feeds. But guess what? Most people are way too busy thinking about themselves. So give yourself a break, and don't waste time worrying about what others think. Let that sink in and give yourself a break from the pressure.
Traditions Are Amazing, But So Is Breaking a Tradition.
Traditions are great, but there's freedom in shaking things up, too! Feel free to create new ones that fit your life now. Breaking tradition isn't losing the past; it's making room for fresh memories. My favorite Thanksgiving ever was when we skipped town and went to Thaliand. There wasn't a turkey in sight and it was glorious.
You're Probably Reverting... Beware.
The holidays can bring out your “old” self, making you feel like the youngest sibling all over again. Notice if you're slipping back into these roles, and give yourself some grace. You're an adult now, so you can handle things differently—even if it feels weird.
Start Your Resolution Today.
January 1st isn't a magic day. If something is important to you, just make a small effort to start right now. That way by the time New Year's rolls around, you'll already have momentum. Whether it's a habit to break or a goal you are really excited about, there's no better time than now!
You Don't Have to Talk About It.
Just because you're with family doesn't mean you owe anyone a discussion. If certain topics always lead to tension, give yourself permission to say, “Let's talk about something else.” Family time doesn't have to mean discussing everything especially if there are undertones of disrespect or judgement.
Cheer Up.
The holidays can be stressful, but try and enjoy some of the magic. Take a moment to find something to appreciate, even if it's just a cozy blanket or a good laugh. One way to be more present is to put your phone away. Yes, that means no pictures, but you'll probably realize you're actually enjoying what you're doing rather than stressing about capturing it.
xoxo,
Aly
