Are you fed up with the drama of family conflict during the holidays? Do you truly only want to create and enjoy special moments with loved ones? If you answered yes, I have the tips you need.
1. Validate those around you. A wise person once said, “People rather die than to be wrong.” This is very useful information while interacting with others, especially our family members. Test it by asking yourself how you feel when someone makes you wrong, particularly when you are certain about something. This holiday season practice letting people know that they are right even if you disagree with them. Yes, actually say to them with a smile and no animosity,
“You are right!”
2. Show that you appreciate – honor your loved ones now -before it is too late- for what they contribute to you personally or to the family or to society as a whole.
3. Make a S.M.A.R.T. request – It is okay to ask for help. In a case where you want to ask your loved one for something, make sure it is:
a.Specific; meaning clear and simple rather than complicated and confusing.
b. Measurable; so that you and your loved can SEE the finish line and the result or impact of fulfilling the request.
c. Attainable; ensuring that your loved one has the skills or resources to honor your request.
d. Relevant; this is your way of making a request that allows your loved one to know that his or her action is actually received by you as a gift and that his or her help contributes to you in a meaningful way.
e. Timely; to communicate to your loved one that you value his or her time and your loved one can plan accordingly to get your request done.
4.Breathe. Pay close attention to your spiritual, mental and physical reactions when you are feeling stressed out or anxious. Take notice to the fact that during these times, you actually are holding your breath. Therefore, remember during these moments to
Breathe = Inhale Deeply, Exhale Freely.
5. Be generous with hugs. In eastern and southern parts of the world, it is quite common courtesy to greet one another with hugs. Give out an extra hug or two this holiday season.. just because. Sometimes that gesture can be exactly what someone needs to push through tough times.
