Setting boundaries - a holiday survival guide

If you celebrated Thanksgiving, you may have had a decent trial run of what the upcoming holidays might look like. Some of you may feel angst about attending the next weeks’ celebrations, as not all families respect the boundaries that are put in place. For example, my child may not want to give everyone a hug, I’m not a softy for allowing them a choice over their bodily autonomy.

“No, I don’t know when I’m getting married, Aunt Beatrice.”

Or the ever popular, “We just got married, I have no idea when we’re having children or IF we’re having children,” to the shock and horror of parents and grandparents everywhere.

Family gathering for dinner

The holidays can be a spectacular spectacle of more than just the lights and libations. For some of us it truly puts us to the test. Although this is not the only setting where we want or need to have boundaries set for our own wellbeing and self care, it sure is a time where the discomfort others have with our boundaries or the lack thereof shine through. So with that being said, you do you! Set those boundaries and don’t be afraid to enforce them.

For a more in depth look of what boundaries might look like, check out the link below from Cultivate: A Counseling Collective, for guidance on boundaries and navigating them with those around you .

With Love, Reno Counseling Collective wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday!

Please remember that this content is not a replacement for therapy.