It’s no secret that the holidays after divorce can be difficult. It’s supposed to be a time that you spend with your family, a celebration of the love that you have for each other. For those going through the holidays for the first time as a newly single person, the holiday season can seem like anything but a celebration.
If you’ve gone through a divorce this year and want to make sure the holidays are merry, these six tips will help.
Focus on Making It Great for Others
If focusing on the problems that you’re going through or dwelling on your divorce are making you unhappy, you might find that turning your energy to others actually helps you feel better. Do something special for your family or friends. Volunteer to help those who are less fortunate. Whatever you decide to do, you’ll notice that you can forget about your own troubles when helping others.
Rely on Friends and Family
It can be easy to forget that no one can read your mind. No one knows what is going on in your head, so if you need help, be sure to ask for it. Your friends and family will be there for you during this time. But they won’t know that you need help unless you ask for it.
Be Flexible with Your Schedule
The holidays don’t necessarily have to take place on a specific day. Remember, it’s not about the day, it’s about spending time with loved ones. For divorced parents spending the holidays without their kids, this can be easy to forget. With a bit of planning, though, you don’t have to abide by the official date.
Get on the Same Page as Your Ex-Spouse for the Kids
Speaking of planning, if you want to make sure that your kids have a special holiday, you need to coordinate with your ex-spouse. The holidays can be stressful on their own, let alone when you and your ex-spouse are working toward different goals. Make sure that there is no room for conflict so that you can enjoy your time with your family.
Rethink Your Traditions for Holidays after Divorce
Before your divorce, you and your family probably had some traditions that comforted you. Now that you and your spouse have split, those traditions may no longer be possible. If that’s the case, then it’s time to make some new traditions.
Be Patient with Yourself and Others
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed during your first holiday season after divorce. With all the events and obligations for family and work, it can feel like a lot. Give yourself time. Be patient with your kids and your family. It’s new for everyone involved.
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