By Megan Miller, LMFT, LPC

This time of year, there are expectations and invitations . . . programs, opportunities to give to charity, and lists of gifts to buy… expectations of happiness and yet feelings of sadness of broken relationships, hardship, and the loss of loved ones. How do we hold the mixture of good and hard during the holidays? Invite yourself to do just this. Acknowledge that while there are good things, the reality is there are likely hard things. Give yourself grace to not experience the holidays in a picture-perfect way, but one that balances both the good and challenges of life every day, as well as during the Christmas season.

Provide an opportunity to slow down and step away from the hustle and bustle and expectations and just be. Notice what is most important to you about this season and how to realign your list of to-dos with these priorities in mind. We often feel we are not doing something right if we aren’t getting it all done… but perhaps we may need to have less to do so we can accomplish what’s most important and let go of the rest. Life is messy and complicated. Find ways to simply focus on those things that draw you toward peacefulness and what truly matters to you today.

At Sioux Falls Psychological Services, we meet you where you are, offering hope.  To schedule an appointment using a confidential technology connection, you can call 605-334-2696.