Journey 
The ber-months, or the last four months of the year, can be a lot for some people due to a plethora of factors. Some may feel uncomfortable around family while others may not have family due to loss or other reasons. Whatever it may be, being mindful and THANKful this Thanksgiving season includes prioritizing yourself while enjoying the company of loved ones. Here are some guidelines for having a peaceful Thanksgiving holiday whether it be with family, friends, or both.
Setting Boundaries
First things first, remember to always set boundaries and understand your limits. It’s okay to communicate what you’re comfortable with to family members. Try excusing yourself from conversations or situations that may cause discomfort for you.
Practicing Gratitude
Keep in mind that prioritizing yourself is not only subject to difficult situations. It can look like practicing gratitude by beginning or ending your day with positive affirmations or what you’re thankful for. This can shift your focus to one of more positivity. Expressing your appreciation for others, including friends, family, pets, even the moon, rocks, or water, helps with being mindful. Even try stepping out to take a walk.
Navigating Grief
If you’re facing a loss, whether it is recent or not, acknowledge grief as just love transferred while implementing enjoyable activities to stay present in your day. Try cooking, eating, watching films or anything that brings you joy during times when you’re highly susceptible to feeling down. Such practices can go a long way. Know that it’s okay to feel all your emotions, write them out, talk aloud, reflect, lean on others, cry, and smile.
The Ultimate Cure to Holi-Daze: Friendsgiving
Another great way to practice being thankful while also keeping yourself and happiness intact is by hosting a Friendsgiving. Who doesn’t love eating with friends? This is a twist to the traditional holiday where friends and chosen family gather together, sharing laughter, and meals, giving birth to new memories. Friendsgiving can alleviate the stress often associated with being in a room full of family members. If in any way you are unable to or don’t wish to be surrounded by family, the idea of Friendsgiving combines the elements of traditional Thanksgiving.
Steps to a Great Friendsgiving:
- Who’s all coming? Develop a list of who’s all coming and send out invites. From there, figure out where it’ll be hosted and who’s contributing to the meal.
- Menu – Shop – Prep: Planning your menu ahead of time allows you to incorporate any dietary restrictions or allergies. Get out that list and buy your non-perishables first and fresh items closer to the date. Lastly, the prep. You should be preparing as many dishes as possible ahead of time to avoid rushing or possible mishaps.
- Decor: Set the scene with a festive atmosphere that screams fall, pumpkins, autumn leaves, and Charlie Brown. There’s no party without music – toy with the ambiance with music that’s cozy and inviting.
- Guest Engagement: Lastly, whether it be with a UNO card game or watching movies after dinner; find a way to keep your guests entertained before and after dinner with activities.
Prioritizing self does not equate to selfishness. Taking care of YOU is essential for your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Through time spent with good energy paired with being mindful and expressing gratitude for the mundane – even in the face of something as paradoxically beautiful as the holiday seasons – you can very well find peace and appreciation during this time.
By Journey Powell, Junior, Spelman College
Instagram: journeyaliah
True Star Media’s content is made possible thanks to donors like you. Help empower young creators and transform lives by donating at truestarmedia.org/donate.
