Staying Grounded Amid Election Frenzy and Holiday Chaos: Boundary Setting 101
As we approach the busy season of year end holidays coupled with a presidential election, we recognize this can be a challenging season. These times, filled with family gatherings, social events, and heightened emotions around political discussions, can leave us feeling burnt out, frustrated, or even resentful. When all we want is to enjoy our time together, we may find ourselves overwhelmed instead. If you find yourself constantly thinking about certain interactions or waking up feeling drained despite getting enough rest, it might be a sign that you need to establish some boundaries. Boundaries are essential for helping us engage more fully with our loved ones and our communities, not less. They can offer much-needed relief if you’re feeling overwhelmed by election talk, holiday stress, or the combination of both.
Empowering Yourself Through Boundaries
A major misconception about setting boundaries is that they are primarily about limiting others. In reality, boundaries are most effective when we focus on what we need to protect our emotional well-being. Here are a few ways to start identifying and creating the boundaries that will help you stay balanced this season:
Tune into Your Emotions: Pay attention to feelings of exhaustion, frustration, or resentment. These emotions are often signals that a boundary has been crossed or is needed.
Assess Your Energy Levels: Take stock of how much mental and emotional energy you're investing in conversations about the election or holiday planning. Is it more than you’re comfortable with? Are you sacrificing your peace of mind or personal time?
Remind Yourself of the Benefits: Setting boundaries can help you stay more present and engaged with your loved ones. By protecting your energy, you can create space for meaningful interactions and experiences during the holidays.
If you’re finding it difficult to identify or maintain boundaries during this time, working with a therapist can provide valuable tools and support.
Communicating Boundaries with "I" Statements
During holiday gatherings or election-related conversations, using "I" statements can be an effective way to set boundaries without escalating tension. It might feel awkward at first, but “I” statements allow for more open, less defensive communication.
For example, instead of saying, “I feel like you’re always trying to argue about politics,” which might sound accusatory, try reframing it: “When political discussions come up at dinner, I feel overwhelmed and anxious. I’d prefer to focus on enjoying time with family and catching up instead.” This keeps the focus on your needs while also providing a clear boundary.
Setting boundaries during emotionally intense times is essential for protecting your well-being and maintaining healthy relationships. We hope these insights help you start recognizing and establishing the boundaries you need. Feel free to share your experiences or challenges with boundaries during these times in the comments—your journey might inspire others!
If you're finding it challenging to set and maintain boundaries during the holiday season and the intense election period, Prairie Sky Counseling Center is here to support you. Reach out to our compassionate team today to help you navigate these stressful times and maintain your emotional well-being. Contact us at hello@prairieskycc.org or 913-214-2857.