Key Takeaways:

Embrace the busy and often unpredictable nature of the festive season with a mindset of self-compassion and adaptability.
Family traditions may evolve over time, and it’s okay for things to look different year to year.
Practicing mindfulness and taking time for personal reflection can be crucial for mental health during busy times.
Asking for help and setting boundaries can mitigate overwhelming feelings during the holiday season.
Finding joy amidst change and nostalgia is essential, even when family members are geographically apart.

Notable Quotes:

"The Christmas period is actually quite different this year for me to what I've experienced before." – Colett Smart
"Too late for whom? Whose rules are those?" – Colett Smart
"It's okay that I'm missing my other children... I'm giving myself permission to feel nostalgic." – Colett Smart

Resources:

Listen to the episode "When it’s Not the Most Wonderful Time of Year" for coping strategies during difficult holidays.
Explore insights on self-compassion with Dr. Veya Seekis' episode here

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

Support the show: https://hope1032.com.au/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

S8E12 When Christmas Looks Different