Not Feeling So Merry and Bright?

The holiday season can be accompanied by a range of emotions, and they are not always pleasant. It can be easy to beat ourselves when we don't feel merry and bright, because society tells us that is how we should feel. I hope these affirmations help you navigate any not-so-joyful emotions you may encounter during the holiday season.

For anyone stressing about money 

1. I am allowed to set boundaries around what I can and cannot afford. 
2. Practicing mindful holiday spending habits makes room for more meaningful financial choices.
3. It’s OK to be disappointed when things are out of my budget. 
4. Gifts are not the only way I show my love or make the holidays special. 
5. I can be creative about the ways I show my care, gratitude and appreciation for others without overspending.

For anyone dreading tense conversations over dinner

1. I can use my voice to advocate for my values and what I believe in.
2. I'm allowed to both love and disagree with someone.
3. My mental, emotional and physical energy are valuable resources to be used wisely. 
4. It’s natural to be frustrated and disappointed when I feel unheard and misunderstood.
5. I can’t control what others say or think, but I do control how I respond and engage.

For anyone struggling with food and self-confidence

1. My body deserves nourishment, kindness, respect and care.
2. I listen to my body’s cues around what I need.
3. I’m allowed to eat as much or as little as I want. 
4. Nobody has the right to make me feel bad for eating what I want.
5. My worth and value are not based on what’s on the scale or in the mirror.
6. My appearance is not for open discussion.
8. Assigning any food a moral value is silly and unhelpful. 

For anyone wading through grief and loss

1. I am allowed to grieve without having to feel grateful or find a silver lining.
2. I am learning to accept the emotional ups and downs of loss.
4. Experiencing grief makes me human.
5. I am choosing to be fully present in my life by honoring my loss as it comes up. 

For anyone spending the holidays alone 

1. Being alone does not diminish my inherent value. I am enough.
2. My relationship status does not define me.
3. I am allowed to desire connection and belonging while also acknowledging that I am whole now. 
4. Being alone is not a personal failure.
5. My holidays don’t have to look like everyone else’s to be fulfilling and meaningful. 

Adapted from Wondermind.com