Just Say NO...

It’s that time of the year again when people will be making demands and pressures on your time and resources, be it with invites to social gatherings, gift purchases or other requests.

Fear of missing out, fear of not spending enough (or spending too much), fear of letting people down, fear of being talked about or judged are all some of the elements that come up when people talk about their anxieties over the coming weeks and managing the holiday period.

On top of this, for many people the holiday season can be full of sadness with memories of loved ones who are no longer with us, or may have died at this time of year or those going through illness (or caring for someone) at this moment in time.

A few supportive ideas that may help those who find it difficult over the holidays:

• Feel free to say no to that party and to spend some time by yourself and reflect on the person/s you miss.

• Write them a letter expressing how you are feeling.

• Visit a memorable place that holds good memories.

• Share your thoughts / spend some time with a close friend/s.

• Listen to some music/watch an old movie that you enjoy.

• Be able to say “NOT RIGHT NOW” or “NO” to things you do not wish to participate. I’m aware I mentioned this at the start but it’s so important and deserving of a further mention!

Be safe, be kind and be compassionate to yourself.