Not just for the holidays, but especially helpful during this hustling, bustling time of year!
This past week has been a very busy one! I had a long to-do list at the beginning of the week and as I look back on that to-do list, I realized that I got more done than I actually thought I did.
In retrospect, I noticed that I was judging myself for not being more productive when in reality I was being pulled in so many directions it just felt unproductive. I also noticed that negative self-talk was starting to creep up. After a bit of that, I noticed I was able reframe that negative self-talk, be an observer and, in the end, be kind to myself.
Monday was off to a pretty good start, but by 2:30AM Tuesday morning my husband and I knew this was not going to be an ordinary week (if there is such thing with small children). Our youngest child began throwing up in the middle of night which continued for about 18 hours. You know stomach viruses, they are not fun! My older child was dealing with many tests, homework and a big debate tournament this weekend, which was very stressful for her.
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, things can seem overwhelming, but the magic of the reframe can sound like:
“I’m not just grumpy, I’m experiencing sensory overwhelm.“
“I’m choosing to sit this social event out because I’m choosing self-care.“
“My child was on more screens than I would’ve liked this week because this is how we manage, working full-time and having sick kiddos.“
“I’m not lazy, I’m taking time to rest.“
“I see that you want that toy, let’s put that on your wish list for Santa.”
Or my eldest daughters wonderful example of a reframe, “we didn’t win the tournament, but I’m really proud of myself.”
What reframes did you find yourself using this past week? How can you find a reframe with your child in the coming weeks? How can you choose to reframe this holiday season? How can we all show up with more grace- for ourselves, our families, and for each other?
Wishing you all a very Happy Holidays!
Talitha