By Linda Ramsey, MA

Many of us have seen a shift in our daily lives since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Suddenly, most of our interactions have been happening solely online.

Several months later, we’re still in a similar position. With the holidays quickly approaching, you may be planning for a completely virtual season.

If the idea of spending the holidays online upsets you, you aren’t alone. Fortunately, with a little flexibility, you can feel better about planning and experiencing a virtual holiday.

Here are some tips to get you through it mindfully and, maybe, even gratefully.

1. Plan Ahead

Pandemic or no pandemic, the best way to avoid frustration is to plan early.

You may want to set up various virtual gatherings for different people in your life, so be sure to stay organized. You don’t want to double-book or overwhelm yourself. Make sure everything is as organized as it can be before going in so you know what to expect and look forward to.  Try a trial run to ensure you work out the online kinks as best you can.

2. Embrace the In-Person Moments

Because we want to stay safe this holiday season, many of us are opting for virtual celebrations when it comes to friends and extended family. However, just because many festivities will happen virtually, you may still have some in-person moments. Embrace such moments with your family and safely savor them. Keep things in perspective by reminding yourself that the holidays won’t always have to be virtual.

3. Take Time for Yourself

Self-care is crucial year-round, and it’s especially important around the holidays. This year, you may feel overwhelmed or disappointed because of all the virtual celebrations. When you feel negativity take over, take a step back. Make some time for yourself and prioritize self-care to stay calm. Practice a mantra to help soothe you during your toughest moments.

4. Don’t Hide Your Emotions

As you move through the holiday season, remember that it’s okay to feel disappointed sometimes. Last holiday season, none of us could have anticipated what this year would bring about. Don’t feel like you need to hide or mask your emotions. This could lead to outbursts or isolation.

Instead, be appropriately open about your emotions with trusted loved ones and friends, or your therapist. Many people are feeling the same way this holiday season. Employ a bit of camaraderie to help get you through it.

5. Make the Virtual Celebration a Little More Exciting 

Are you worried that a virtual celebration will end up being lackluster? It doesn’t have to be! When you have a virtual gathering, you don’t need to sit around and talk. You can plan a gift exchange, gingerbread house contest, or cocktail hour. Again, these things will take some planning and creativity, so start brainstorming early to make your virtual celebrations a little more festive. Take advantage of this year’s challenges to make an unforgettable memory.

6. Be Patient and Flexible

We’re fortunate to have technology to allow us to have virtual celebrations. However, technology isn’t infallible, and glitches may happen. Try your best to go with the flow and be flexible. You may experience technical difficulties, but if you take them in stride. You’ll be able to look back and laugh if you allow humor to factor in. Holiday celebrations can still be happy and lighthearted, so try to maintain a flexible mindset.

7. Talk to a Therapist

The holidays are stressful enough as it is. As you and yours face a whole new level of stress, give yourself the gift of objective guidance and support. Consider seeking out a therapist.

You deserve to enjoy your holiday season; a therapist can help you work through your stress and sadness over the virtual holiday. Your therapist can also help you brainstorm new ideas to stay calm and make the most of the holidays, even if it’s mostly online. 

Despite being months into the pandemic, many of us are still struggling to adjust. As you gear up to spend the holidays online, remember to be kind to yourself.

The holiday season will look a little different this year, but it doesn’t have to be any less joyous. Keep these tips in mind as you move through your virtual celebrations and remember to prioritize your mental well-being above all else this holiday season.

Linda Ramsey, MA, LPC, LMFT, works with couples and individuals at the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin. If you are struggling with the idea of virtual holidays this year, don’t hesitate to reach out for support from a trained professional. To schedule a session with Linda, give her a call at (512) 270-4883, ext. 106, or request an appointment with her online through the RCC Austin Scheduling page. We are here for you.

For more information, click here: Life Transition Counseling