How lucky I am to have had someone that makes saying goodbye so hard. Paraphrased from Winnie the Pooh
While some of us are joyfully getting ready for the upcoming holiday season, others are dreading the thought. Whether you’ve had a recent loss or one years ago, the holidays can trigger grief and sadness. Here are a few tips for dealing with this time of the year.
- Let others know your wishes. Be clear about what you do and don’t want to attend or participate in. This isn’t the time to be a pleaser. Take care of yourself.
- Celebrate traditions…or not. If it feels right to do the things you’ve always done, carry on. If creating new traditions works for you, let others know your ideas and follow through.
- Give to a charity in the name of your mom. In this season of gift giving, this is a way to feel you’ve given a gift to your loved one who is gone.
- Pass on favorite recipes. One way to create a legacy is to teach others traditional recipes that you learned from your mother. This is particularly satisfying if your children or grandchildren never knew her.
- Attend uplifting events. Find a Christmas play, cantata, or child’s school event to attend.
- Keep it simple. Getting tired and entering into the realm of overwhelm will take away the few emotional reserves you have accumulated. It’s just fine to forget the cards or cookies. Rest when you need to and have a relaxed holiday season.
Affirmation: I can handle the holidays.
Coaching questions: What is your plan for handling this season? Don’t leave it to chance. Consider what will work for you. Do you have a confidante? Don’t hesitate to contact her.
Life after losing a mother 