Why Does Thanksgiving Create Feelings of Anxiousness after leaving Difficult Relationships?

As a single mom, Thanksgiving can be an emotionally charged time of year. After leaving an emotionally difficult relationship, the anxiety, stress and expectations around previously celebrated events may come rushing back and feel overwhelming. While family traditions may no longer remain in-tact, sometimes we need to reinvent ourselves and really think about what is most important to us and how we want to share each holiday with our children. Sometimes these special days can leave us feeling deeply hurt with past memories. You are not alone in this journey; countless other moms including myself have identified similar feelings of anxiousness as they try to build new holiday traditions for themselves and their children. This blog post will explore why holidays can be a real struggle, how to acknowledge those feelings and offer insight into how you can approach upcoming events while managing emotions, and provide tips on shaping new celebrations that your family will enjoy.

The Struggle Is Real!

The holiday season can bring up a lot of mixed emotions for single moms. It’s completely understandable to feel angry, anxious, and even deep saddness during this time. After all, holidays are meant to be spent with loved ones and create lasting joyful memories. But when you’re coming out of a difficult relationship, those feelings can be really overwhelming.

Acknowledge your Feelings

It’s important to acknowledge the struggle and the feelings you are having. Say to yourself, of course I feel that way! I mean, because really, who wouldn’t feel the way you are feeling? Your dreams of having a happy, joyful family holiday are dashed. Of course, you feel sad. Your feelings need you to acknowledge them. In addition, I would like to say, it’s ok, to not feel ok. My friend, Elle taught me that! I thought it had some healing power!

How would you like the holiday to turn out?

After acknowledging your emotions, it’s time to think about how you would like the holiday to turn out. Instead of thinking about how past memories have been so hurtful, and traditions that you didn’t enjoy, focus on creating new ones for yourself and your children. This can be a chance to reinvent yourself and start fresh with celebrations that truly bring joy and meaning to you and your family.

Put Yourself First

As a single mom, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Between balancing work, taking care of your children, and trying to create new traditions, it can be a lot. But don’t forget to take care of yourself! Make sure to set aside some time for yourself that bring you peace and relaxation. This could be anything from taking a hot bath, sitting quietly, going for a walk, reading a book, or even enjoying your favorite cup of tea in silence. Sitting in silence will help your nervous system to relax and possibly come up with some new holiday ideas. When we are calm and relaxed, it’s more possible to feel creative. Not to mention, it will definitely help you to approach the holiday in a calm state and I challenge you to set a no rushing around rule!

One Last Thing…

While the holiday season can be tough for single moms, it’s important to remember that you are not alone in your struggles. I invite you to my private Facebook group for support. Acknowledge and validate your feelings, but also take the opportunity to create new traditions and make meaningful memories with your children. And most importantly, don’t forget to take care of yourself during this time. Wishing you a happy and peaceful Thanksgiving! So, let’s get creative!