The holidays can be a nerve-wracking time for anyone, especially if you’re going through a significant life transition, such as divorce. You might feel a bit unmoored or like you’re not able to withstand the pressures of the season. So many parties, family gatherings, and community events that could cause anxiety or the desire to sit out the celebrations. Instead of hiding away and hibernating from November through January (although opting out of the social obligations is definitely a choice you can make), why not reclaim this time and create new holiday traditions for yourself?
The first holiday season after my divorce, I found myself wanting solitude. After spending a little time with my family, I took off on a solo trip. I drove to a campsite and rang in the new year by myself. There were no fireworks or midnight kisses, but lots of quiet and time to reflect. It was exactly how I wanted to kick off the next year of my life and proved to be an excellent choice.
Ways to Rewrite Your Holiday Traditions
Focus on what feels right for you
For some, that might mean getting together with family and friends. However, if the thought of having to answer questions about your divorce fills you with dread, don’t force the socializing. However, if there is some aspect of the holiday that you cherish, lean hard into that – whether it’s decorating, attending a religious celebration, or sending cards to those you love.
Go somewhere you’ve never been
It might sound odd to spend Christmas somewhere new, but what better way to take your mind off things? Whether it’s booking in for a resort experience where you don’t have to worry about anything or visiting that quaint ski town that you’ve dreamed of seeing decked out with holiday flair, give yourself the gift of a different locale in which to make new memories and perhaps start new holiday traditions.
Try a new activity
Have you always wanted to spend the yuletide snorkeling? Or maybe your friends are renting a ski-in cabin and have extended an invitation to you? Look beyond your fear and jump into something that you’ve never done before. Beyond discovering a potentially new skill or hobby, you’ll be reframing the holidays and making it a time for doing what you want to do.
Take the time to explore what the holidays actually mean to you and find ways of honoring that. Instead of following an outdated guide to the holidays, write a new one that suits where you are in your life. It may look unconventional or upset regular holiday traditions (or your mother), but now isthe time to invest in yourself and ensure that you’re setting yourself up for an excellent start to the new year.
