karavoli

Holiday season is right around the corner and for some of us the festivities have already begun. Family gatherings, early Christmas celebrations with your friends, office parties…it’s a whirlwind of events, expectations and – let’s be honest – sometimes tension.

For many, myself included, the holidays can feel less like a joyful celebration and more like a minefield of awkward conversations, old family dynamics and social obligations we’d rather skip. Wow, that was quite a negative intro but I’m here to be real and honest and I promise you: after you read this blogpost, you will know how to protect your energy and still enjoy the most wonderful time of the year (did you just sing that in your head too?).

You don’t know how to set healthy boundaries? I’ve got you covered.

Time

Don’t feel obligated to attend every party or dinner and feel free to leave early if you don’t feel comfortable.

You can say:

• I can’t attend, but I appreciate the invitation.
• I wish I could, but I can’t.
• I don’t feel safe, so I’m going to leave.

Conversations

Limit time with difficult relatives and politely decline draining and triggering topics (like body shaming).

You can say:

• I’m not comfortable discussing this topic with you.
• Thanks, but I’m not interested.
• My body is not up for discussion.

Self-care

Prioritize rest, nourishing food, meditation, walking—whatever helps you decompress.

You can say:

• I’m going for a walk.
• I need some time for myself.

Financial

Create a budget for gifts and avoid debt to reduce stress. Read my blogpost about Christmas, Consumerism and Conscious choices here. And if someone starts asking you about your personal finances you can just say:

• I only discuss this topic with a few people I’m comfortable with.

Remember: Don’t beat yourself up if you have practised your lines in front of the mirror or under the shower and then you don’t have the “balls” to say them out loud. It takes time and practice. Sometimes it is even better to just sit still and observe and don’t react at all. That can be even more powerful even if in the moment it doesn’t feel like it. And one more thing: Not everyone will be happy about your boundaries and clap for you. Prepare for them to get mad and please remember: you are not responsible for their reactions and emotions.

You’ve got this.