Thanksgiving Survival Guide for Men
Thanksgiving is next week, and while it's a holiday for giving thanks and connecting with loved ones, it definitely comes with its own stressors. That's why we've put together a guide of some of the most common situations guys face on Thanksgiving Day and how to navigate them.
You got talked into hosting Thanksgiving Dinner, and you're not too happy about it.
There can be a lot of pressure to prepare multiple dishes, entertain guests, and satisfy everyone’s needs...leaving you feeling tired and stressed.
It's okay not to have an extravagant feast with every dish cooked to perfection. Be clear about what you can and cannot do; communicate this to your guests well in advance. It's your home and your rules. If you're not keen on making a specific dish, suggest a potluck style dinner where everyone can contribute something they enjoy. Remember, the purpose of this gathering is not to impress everyone with a perfect holiday spread but to enjoy each other's company. So, release the pressure to make everyone happy. You can't please everyone, and that's completely alright. Focus on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where lasting memories can be made.
You're concerned about navigating complex (and even uncomfortable) family dynamics.
Whether it's the in-laws, your partner, or any other type of relationship, it can be difficult to gracefully navigate various family dynamics and the baggage that comes along with it.
The key is to remain calm, composed and tactful. If there's a history of family drama, prepare yourself mentally and emotionally. Steer clear of sensitive topics and instead, focus on neutral or positive subjects. Remember, every family has its own quirks, and it's not your responsibility to resolve longstanding family issues. If tensions arise, take a deep breath and step away for a moment if needed. You can always change the subject or guide the conversation towards happier topics. This isn't the time for deep-seated issues to be resolved – it's a time for unity and celebration. Don't let past issues spoil the present moment.
You're worried about relying on alcohol to make it through the day.
Thanksgiving can also be a time when many people turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism for dealing with stress and anxiety. Of course, excessive drinking can lead to negative consequences and may even ruin your holiday.
If you're inclined to rely on alcohol to ease the stress of the day, consider refocusing your attention. One good strategy is to shift your focus to add an activity to the day such as playing a board game, watching a movie, or engaging in a friendly cooking competition. Even getting outside for a short walk can be a great way to refocus your attention and to take a breather. Remember, it's acceptable to sip on a drink or two to celebrate, but make sure it doesn't become your primary method for dealing with stress.
You're still just...stressed about it.
Even if you can't pinpoint the issue, you might still just feel stressed about everything going on. And that's valid.
It's perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed during these festive occasions. Rather than trying to suppress these feelings, allow yourself to acknowledge the stress. Consider incorporating some mindful practices into your day to help ease the tension. This could be taking five minutes of alone time, meditating, or even just focusing on your breath. Simple activities like these can have a significant impact on your stress levels. Additionally, remember that it's okay to ask for help. Delegate tasks where you can, whether it's setting the table or washing the dishes. Remember, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness. Try to focus on the positive aspects of the day – the delicious food, the warmth of family and friends, and the opportunity to create beautiful memories.
