Coping with Difficult Feelings During the Thanksgiving Holiday

Hey Friends, I just want to say, for so many of us, the Thanksgiving season evokes feelings of joy and connection to family and friends. It’s a time to gather together around a table full of food, share stories from the past year, and simply be grateful for all that we have. For some people who have endured difficult relationships, the holidays can present unique challenges – including loneliness, financial struggles, feeling left out or deep sadness that this isn’t how they expected their life to turn out. If you’re a single mom feeling overwhelmed by Thanksgiving approaching but wanting to keep it meaningful for your kids, know that even small changes can make big differences in how you experience the holiday. In this post, I’ll share some tips on how you can recreate the Thanksgiving holiday to be meaningful to you.

What Brings Joy In Your Heart?

We all have different things that bring us joy and happiness. For some, it may be spending quality time with people who truly bring joy into our hearts like friends or family, or co-workers. Maybe you want to make a delicious home-cooked meal. Take some time to sit and be still to think about what will truly bring you joy this Thanksgiving. Is it decorating your home for Christmas? Or maybe it’s volunteering at a local soup kitchen.

Create New Traditions

Traditions are a big part of Thanksgiving and can often be one of the hardest things to change. However, creating new traditions can be a great way to cope with difficult situations or feelings during the holiday. Consider starting a new tradition with your kids, like creating a fruit turkey together or making a new special breakfast. Maybe you have a movie you will watch together after dinner. These small but meaningful changes can help create new memories and bring joy to your holiday.

Still Not Feeling Festive?

It’s ok to not be ok. Yes, I said it. Sometimes we just don’t feel like celebrating because of what we have been through. Do what is right for you and avoid putting expectations on yourself. Remember this is a season of life and it won’t last forever. Sometimes we have to go through the sadness, grief and loss to blossom. It’s part of the healing process. It’s important to recognize those feelings and acknowledge them. Ignoring or pushing those feeling away, will only make the healing process longer. Don’t beat yourself up about it. Instead, allow yourself time to process the feelings that come up. Remember, that the holiday season is not just about being happy all the time.

Practice Gratitude

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude and being thankful for what we have. Take the time to sit and thing about all the things you are grateful for. It can be as simple as a roof over your head, food, your children, a supportive friend or family member. Start thinking of the basics and continue the process. Practicing gratitude can shift our focus from what we don’t have to what we do have, helping us find joy in our hearts in the present moment.

Remember, you are not alone in feeling overwhelmed or struggling during the holiday season. Reach out to friends, family or join my private Facebook group if you need support. Take care of yourself and do what is best for you during this time. And know that it’s okay to make changes and create new traditions.

One Last Thing…

Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and connection, but it can also be a challenging time for some. It’s important to take care of ourselves and our emotions during this holiday season. Remember to focus on what truly brings you joy, create new traditions that bring meaning to your holiday, and allow yourself the space and time to process any difficult feelings. Hugs from me to you on this Thanksgiving.

💜Renee