ipates them every year, but you’re just too swamped at work to handle the baking right now. Remember it’s perfectly fine to say no or take on a different responsibility than previous years to maintain your sanity. “Families can fall into this mentality often of ‘we’ve always done it this way, so it has to be this way again,’” said Warfield. “Making sure you are communicating what you can and cannot do and where you need some help is important. It’s hard to communicate boundaries sometimes because of this desire to please, but the more that’s left unsaid, the more conflict, and sometimes resentment, can arise. Have As the coronavirus, and now the Delta variant, continues to loom within communities, individuals may have different comfort levels when it comes to spending time with large groups, even if they are family. Before getting together, Neal suggests families have a conversation to discuss everyone’s comfort level and what they would ideally like. “If you are the one hosting, maybe send out a family text message and say, ‘This is what I’m comfortable with,’” said Neal. “Or have a family video chat so everyone can talk about what they would like and share ideas, such as meeting outdoors for the get together instead of indoors.” Whatever the case may be, Neal reminds readers that COVID will continue even past the holidays. a conversation early and be open to compromising.” Holidays during a pandemic “There may be disagreements but remind your family and say, ‘We need to respect each other and keep this about the holidays and about family,’” said Neal.
Put yourself first Regardless of where, or how, you end up setting boundaries this season, both Warfield and Neal agree self-care and reaching out to your support network are essential to preserving mental health. “Make sure you have someone to de-stress with after the holidays or after you’ve had a hard conversation,” said Warfield. Neal reminds parents to take a break when needed and enjoy the special moments throughout the holiday season. “Make sure you actually take the time to sit back and observe what you are doing,” said Neal. “It’s easy to get wrapped up in buying the presents and preparing the food. Ensure you are still taking care of you.”
Join TODAY to receive a special offer!
MetroFamily Insiders
Be one of the first 50 people to join MetroFamily Insiders during the month of November and receive a BONUS: a $20 gift certificate to Green Bambino in OKC! For just $25, a membership to MetroFamily Insiders includes our magazines mailed straight to your home plus discount and early-bird tickets to MetroFamily events. It's the perfect gift for loved ones— or yourself!
metrofamilymagazine.com /
insider
54 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOV-DEC 2021
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease