Do holiday gatherings freak you out?
Ever feel like breathing into a paper bag just before walking through the door of a family party?
Does your idea of a party consist of you on your couch, in your jammies, with hot chocolate while Netflix-ing some Christmas movie?
Are you a shy introvert like me?
Well then, here are my six best tips for surviving a holiday gathering – work, church, school, friends, family or whatever:
- Pray that God will help you be yourself throughout the entire day.
- Pray that God will help you remember that he is standing by your side with his arm around you.
- Treat every person you talk to like an interesting stranger. If small talk isn’t your thing, have a couple open-ended questions at the ready.
- If you’re asked a question you don’t want to answer or a topic comes up that makes you feel uncomfortable, you are allowed to say, respectfully, “I’d rather not talk about that.” You might want to practice this one ahead of time.
- Remind yourself that you’re a grown-up and you can leave whenever you need to, no questions asked. Or if leaving-leaving isn’t an option, you can always lock yourself in the bathroom for a five-minute deep-breathing/come-to-Jesus session. Hypothetically. So I’ve heard.
- Remember what this holiday is all about; not the gifts or the food or the outfits or any of it. It’s about Jesus and what he’s done for us, bottomline.
For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. -Isaiah 9:6
It’s not too late to grab your copy of Holidays for the Hurting: Devotions to Help You Heal.
The Christmas holiday gatherings do bother me and yes I am
More introverted and I will try some of your suggestions! My
Sister and her husband are having people over for Christmas
Eve and a couple relatives are coming down from NB- and my
Nephew, his wife and Son will be home from Alberta! ..but
Christmas Eve last year I had to insist upon leaving early
Because my husband was on his third glass of wine and we
Had to drive a ways- as much as I would like to spend time
With them I don’ t think I can go this year as it upsets me to
Have to leave in that manner! The next day they have supper
So will go to that- however they have wine but hopefully no much
Only with the meal!
I appreciate your openness and honesty- Thanks again!
God Bless!
Diane