If you happen to have the opportunity to be with family this holiday season, take it. There doesn’t have to be a huge crowd; or a big family dinner. Even two or three people can make a holiday environment feel cozy and festive. Delicious food, special drinks, a favorite dessert; a fire in the fireplace, Christmas music playing in the background, twinkling lights; stockings hung by the chimney and a few small gifts under the tree will brighten anyone’s day.
It is usually the “strained” family relationships that we worry about the most during the holidays. Some of these relationships are marked by conflict or constant tension. How family members choose to communicate or fail to communicate should be a concern. Be more careful of what you say and how you say it. If there is any doubt, don’t say it. Just smile and enjoy each other’s company.
Don’t let “bad family relationships” ruin your holiday season this year. Here are a few ways you can help:
• Avoid being slanderous and gossipy.
• Speak in a more calm, slow, and pleasant tone.
• Practice being a good listener.
• Restrain and control your negative emotions.
• Keep jealousy and envy out of it.
• Be genuinely happy for everyone present.
It can take a little effort to get along during the holidays. But be “determined to succeed”. Be determined to improve family relationships. Practice effective communication skills and put your best foot forward.
No family is perfect. There are a variety of issues, personalities, and attitudes. Some people might still be holding grudges from six months ago. And obviously, you will not be able to control everything. And that’s OK. But one thing you can do is promote and role model better mental and physical health; as well as personal growth.
And remember, it’s best not to get too involved with other family members’ issues. Especially during the holidays. Besides, some of those issues may not be of your concern anyway. Keep the day pleasant. No issues.
Well, the long and short of it is – try to do everything within your power to promote good family relationships this holiday season. We all have so much to be thankful for. Focus on that.
