Handling The Holidays During A Pandemic

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This year, some chose to put up holiday decorations on November 1, the day after Halloween. “It’s 2020!” They said, “We deserve it!”

This visible reminder has brought on a number of emotions for quarterlifers. In addition to big decisions about their education, career path, and romantic relationships, they’ve been dealing with the ongoing pandemic this year. And now? The holidays.

How should you approach a holiday season (already a time of high emotions) that is like no other? Keep reading for our best tips about handling this season during the pandemic.

1. Plan ahead.

If you’re feeling stressed about the holidays, one thing that may alleviate your anxiety is planning. In past years, you may have known exactly what your plans are. With new health recommendations, it may not make sense to follow through with these due to the risks. Start thinking about what you’ll choose to do and who you’ll choose to spend time with. Knowing what to expect is always helpful.

2. Assess the risks.

A pandemic puts you at a higher risk this year and that can bring on a lot of negative feelings. As you begin to plan your holiday activities, assess the risks you may face. This can help you understand what you’re comfortable with. Read here what the Center for Disease Control has to say.

3. Manage family expectations.

Whom do you normally spend time with during the holidays? What role do you play in those gatherings? Is there anyone you spend time with who is high-risk? Would you put yourself in danger by attending?

Consider all of these factors and decide what is the best course of action. Then, work through managing your family’s expectations (which could be anger or disappointment if you decide not to attend). While it isn’t comfortable, remind yourself that you’re making the decision based on the health crisis at hand.

4. Understand the lessons the pandemic can teach us.

While you may wish you could return to your pre-pandemic life, this time has no doubt brought important lessons to all of us.

It is a fantasy that life is controllable.

You have never had control over what happens to you. You’ve only ever have control over how you respond to it. Remember that and don’t be hard on yourself when something goes wrong that is beyond your control.

When life throws you a curveball, apply flexibility and creativity.

Your life may not be what you thought it would be, but you’re able to adapt. You can roll with the punches and come out of an experience like this better than before. How have you faced the adversity sent your way? How can you be proud of yourself in a time like this?

Slow down.

This is such a simple life lesson that so many of us forget. We’re constantly caught up in the rat race of life. We spend our days on autopilot and multitasking. Now that life has slowed down a bit, we’re able to see all that we have. Kids are enjoying more free play outside. Families eat meals together, get to know each other, and bond over their shared experiences. Although you may not have the life you had before the pandemic, you have opportunities you wouldn’t otherwise have.

Final thoughts

Take care of yourself during this holiday season. Put your health (and the health of those around you) first. Only then can you build the life you want.

For additional support, visit the Quarterlife Center. We’re here to help you live life to the fullest.