7 Tips For Surviving The Holidays With Your Dysfunctional Family - Page 6
6. Find Moments of Gratitude Amidst the Chaos

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Finding gratitude during the holidays can be challenging, even for those with a daily practice. It helps shift your focus from what’s not working to what is. Instead of expecting your family dynamics to be perfect, take time to appreciate even the smallest things. We can do this silently by reciting five things we’re grateful for at any given time, such as “I’m grateful for good food. I’m grateful I woke up this morning. I’m grateful this dinner won’t last forever…” Or, we can bring the family into the practice by going around the dinner table, with everyone taking turns to name one thing they’re thankful for. Acknowledging the effort and love behind difficult interactions can help you develop compassion for both yourself and your family.