In this post, I will share the first 10 of 20 ways you can have a better experience this holiday season.

After decades of working with people going through divorce, I’ve noticed that the holidays are when many unintentionally make things harder for themselves.

They say yes to invitations when they desperately want to say no. They spend time with toxic relatives out of guilt or habit. And instead of taking simple actions that would help them feel stronger or calmer, they freeze and hope the season will just “be over soon.”

While some people going through a marital breakup might feel joy and relief, at the other end of the spectrum are those who are mourning the loss of their nuclear family, or in-laws with whom you had close ties. Perhaps most pronounced is the sadness felt by those who have to share custody of the kids, only seeing them on the day after Thanksgiving, or on Christmas Eve, for example.

Here are the first 10 of 20 powerful, practical ways to support yourself during the holidays.

Whether it’s a therapist, coach, clergy member, or trusted friend, don’t hold everything inside. Talking helps process your pain out of your mind and body. It's like a release valve that helps you let off steam.........

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