As if you don't already have enough stress during the holidays, going through a divorce at this time of year multiplies the stress level. While your lawyer can help you manage stress over the divorce proceeding, here are some tips on managing a different kind of holiday stress:
- Give yourself a break. You do not have to be SuperMom or SuperDad this year. Let someone else do the planning and heavy lifting. Sometimes just showing up is the hardest chore of all, so strive for that and let someone else lead the festivities once you get there. You will be surprised how letting go allows you to sit back and enjoy the holidays.
- Don't be afraid to do something completely different this year. For example, if you always make a holiday meal, plan to go out instead. Plan a holiday movie marathon with your kids or your friends or even alone (you can sit anywhere you want!). Don't let your attachment to tradition derail you from what is important – showing up and sharing family, friendship, and love.
- Watch out for overcompensating with "retail therapy." If necessary, turn off or limit your exposure to commercials and other holiday messages urging you to buy, buy, buy. Make efforts to wisely spend your time, not your money, by sharing meals, activities and festivities with family and friends. You will feel connected and cared for by connecting and caring for others, and your bank account will thank you immensely when the holiday bills roll in.Keeping these tips in mind can help to keep your holiday merry and bright, and reduce the stress that often accompanies the holidays while going through a divorce.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.