Although the holidays are a beautiful time, they can also be difficult for many reasons. Whether it’s unmet expectations, not having the picture-perfect Christmas, or dealing with tricky family dynamics, this period can cause struggle, stress, and shame. Joining us today to talk about how to navigate the holidays is Licensed Professional Counselor, Kate Turner who has recently closed her private practice and will be joining us at Mosaics of Mercy in 2021! In this episode, we talk about reframing expectations and getting to the true meaning of Christmas. Yes, gifts and cookies are great, but if they are causing so much stress and taking you away from your family, is all this trouble really worth it? Kate talks about communicating expectations with your family and how this will likely lighten your load. Another stressful part of the holidays is scheduling, which is why it is so important to set boundaries early on. We hear about how to gently yet firmly communicate our non-negotiables, and why we need to fill our cup before we make any commitments. Our conversation also touches on managing our expectations of others and remembering to laugh during this time. Stay tuned until the end for a special song to ring in the festive season!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Some exciting news: Kate is joining Mosaics of Mercy as a family navigator and school liaison!
• How our mindset about what Christmas means to us impacts our perception of this time.
• Why we should not compare our celebrations to others’.
• Katie’s advice on how we can reframe our expectations, particularly during this difficult year.
• Ask yourself how you want to feel at the end of the festive season and work back from there.
• How family dynamics can affect this period and the importance of setting clear boundaries.
• We have more time to make decisions than we think we do.
• What those of us who have children or loved ones in treatment can do this festive season.
• Focus on what you have instead of what you don’t!
• How we can reflect and work on our expectations of others during the holidays.
• Tips on how we can be gentle but firm in communicating our boundaries.
• Remember to find things to laugh at during this time; it brings us closer together.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Kate Turner on LinkedIn

Kate Turner Counseling

Kate Turner on Twitter

Sam Allberry

Yellowstone

Loving My Actual Christmas

The Best Yes

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Elf

Song For My Children

Mosaics of Mercy