For introverts, the holidays are always a treacherous time: holiday parties, endless socializing, and an abundance of family time.
It’s also the time of year that introverts become keenly aware that their preference and need for alone time is often viewed as unusual, confusing, or even rude.
With all of the opportunity for misunderstanding and judgment, it’s highly important during this busy season to remember that your quiet needs don’t just go away because of increased expectations or responsibilities.
To best enjoy the holidays in your own quiet way, remember these three key points:
1. Say No
I put this at the top of the list because this is probably the hardest one for us to actually implement.
It’s really easy to feel like you must attend every party, host every family event, and visit every rarely-if-ever-seen family member in order to be a “good” person.
Although we may make extra effort to get out more than normal, this doesn’t mean that you allow every invite or opportunity to leave you feeling frazzled. Which leads me to my next point…
2. Schedule Quiet Breaks
A busy season doesn’t have to mean a restless mind. Purposefully create pockets of solitude throughout your week to recharge and refuel your wonderfully quiet side.
3. Use Your Strengths
It’s really easy to get so lost in the hustle and bustle that you don’t even really enjoy this time of year.
Take time to sit back and observe your surroundings – take in the sounds of laughter, the smells of cinnamon and ginger, the taste of hot cocoa and apple pie – feel the textures of family ornaments, and see the glowing lights.
Reflect on happy memories while creating or re-enacting family traditions.
By slowing things down, you’ll be able to truly appreciate the beauty and wonder all around you!
If you’re looking to heal from narcissistic abuse or relationship trauma, I can help! I specialize in helping people heal from toxic, dysfunctional, or harmful relationships. I recommend starting here and getting my free bimonthly newsletter. Or contact me today about working together via therapy or coaching.
Chelsey Brooke Cole is a psychotherapist, best-selling author, speaker, and coach specializing in narcissistic abuse and relational trauma. Praised as "Enlightening and Empowering" Chelsey's new book, If Only I'd Known! How to Outsmart Narcissists, Set Guilt-Free Boundaries, and Create Unshakeable Self-Worth is available wherever books are sold.
