Family Christmas: 7 Tips For Getting The Most Out Of It

“Christmas is not a date; it is a state of mind”. So said Mary Ellen Chase, but what happens to people who don’t live like that? This article is especially aimed at them. We want to share  a series of guidelines to enjoy or at least support Christmas as a family.

As much as a vast majority of people celebrate these commemorative dates, this is not something that can be generalized to everyone. So, while some try to be more empathetic and happy, others don’t see any reason to do anything special, and even suffer during these days because they feel like they’re forced to celebrate something they don’t want to celebrate.

“Christmas waves a magic wand over the world, so everything is smoother and prettier.”
-Norman Vincent Peale-

Guidelines for enjoying Christmas with the family

In any case, and as Charles Dickens said: “I will honor Christmas in my heart and I will try to keep it all year round”. In other words, it doesn’t seem like a good idea for us to be extreme these days, neither from a negative point of view nor overreaching ourselves, wanting to be exaggeratedly happy and empathetic.

The fact is that we can find many reasons not to enjoy a Christmas with the family.  Whether it’s because of fights with other members, because a loved one isn’t there or simply because these are dates we can’t like. However, there are options to support them, and even enjoy them. At least that’s what psychologist Graci Molines says, as we see below.

go with an open heart

The first key is wanting to have fun. As much as they are dates we don’t like, or because there are problems in the family, it’s still a good time to strengthen bonds and have fun. So, having a real desire to enjoy the night is essential.

Separate the important from the superfluous

If you’re in a family, wanting to argue for the smallest reasons, don’t doubt that you’ll succeed.  On the contrary, if we try to be receptive and don’t be on the lookout for any comment or unimportant act to “skip out”, we will not only give ourselves an opportunity to enjoy, but we will also make sure other people have a good holiday.

They, the people we love, are always a good reason not to fight.

focus on the positive

Christmas is a good time to focus on the positive, not the other way around. So if family gatherings seem boring, try to focus on what you like about them. There is certainly someone you like a lot and you don’t see very often, funny moments and interesting situations that you can enjoy.

improve your mood

Forget the frown and look at family gatherings wanting to add, contribute, influence. In doing so, you not only give pleasure to others, but you include yourself and it will be harder for you not to get something good out of a celebration that partially fits what you want.

Look for the empathy in you

Once again… the eternal empathy, necessary as always. She is essential to spend a good Christmas with the family. If you are able to understand the motives of others, and even put yourself in their shoes, this time will certainly be much more bearable and, who knows, even fun. In this sense, if you can connect with the feelings of those people who are enjoying the event, it’s easier for you to end up having fun too.

respect others

Very similar to the previous point. In this case, remember that each person is different and has their own way of seeing life. So, even though it can be difficult at times, it is necessary to respect others. Listen to their opinions and, while not sharing them, at least be respectful of their ideas.

Don’t bring up sensitive issues

Finally, the psychologist gives us very important guidance. During a family gathering, where everyone is well known, we know that there are issues that can cause discomfort. So, especially at Christmas, why bring them to light? This is definitely not the time to bother anyone.

Family Christmas doesn’t have to be difficult for anyone. In any case, follow these guidelines to enjoy it with the people you care about. In fact, these keys will serve not only for dealing with these dates, but also for any social gathering.