Holidays can be, in the words of Charles Dickens, “the best of times and the worst of times. And most of those times (best and worst) involve families… or lack of family… or too much family. This holiday season TherapyCouch.net would like to encourage you to utilize the Triple “A” (AAA) method when interacting with your family and loved ones.
ANTICIPATE: Think about your relationships and anticipate possible points of conflict or emotional triggers. Use your past experiences as signposts so you are prepared for “sharp curves” and “uneven pavement.” Formulate positive responses and feelings before you’re caught up in the same old patterns.
ACCEPT: If you accept the limitations and idiosyncrasies of your loved ones your are free to look for and admire their good qualities – instead of focusing on their faults (which we all have plenty of).
ALLOW: Go easy on yourself. If family dynamics become overwhelming allow yourself to take a break, go for a walk, be still, be by yourself. Allow this in others as well.
If you find yourself feeling lonely during the holidays the Triple “A’s” (AAA) still work: ANTICIPATE, ACCEPT and ALLOW.
We’d also suggest reviewing the When We Were Young or Changing the Recent Past, videos in the BREATHING/VISUALIZATION section of TherapyCouch.net.
We here at TherapyCouch.net want to thank all of you for telling your friends and family about TherapyCouch.net. Together we are making a difference in the world.
We wish all of you safe and joyful Holiday Season.