Episode 4 of 10: Emotional Labor + Holiday Expectations (Holiday Mental Load Series)

Today we’re talking about the invisible part of the holiday mental load that hits new and expecting parents the hardest: emotional labor and expectations.
This is the stuff no one sees ,but absolutely everyone feels.

Because when you’re the parent managing the vibe of the room, the tension between relatives, your own overstimulation, your baby’s needs, and everyone’s expectations… the holidays can feel more like emotional gymnastics than family fun.

In this episode, we dive into:
• Why emotional labor skyrockets during the holidays
• How one partner often ends up managing everyone’s feelings
• The pressure to “make it magical” when you’re exhausted
• How family expectations create hidden stress
• The “Emotional Non-Negotiables” tool to protect your bandwidth
• What to say when you’re trying to set boundaries without creating conflict
• How couples can show up for each other emotionally—not just logistically

This episode is part of our 10-day series helping couples replace holiday overwhelm with connection, clarity, and teamwork.

👉 Download the free Holiday Mental Load Breakthrough guide
Inside you’ll find emotional labor prompts, boundary-setting questions, holiday expectations mapping, and your weekly Holiday Huddle worksheet:
Holiday Mental Load Breakthrough: Make the Invisible Holiday Work Visible in Your Relationship

Your emotional wellbeing matters, and the holidays feel lighter when you both understand the load you're carrying.