Teacher Thrive: Episode 23: Throw Out Your Manual for the Holidays

Free Guides:

Examine your Thoughts

Who Are You, Really? 12 Prompts to Create Self-Awareness

Thoughts That Build Resilience

Weekly Time Blocking Planner

Boundary Setting Cheat-Sheet

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

Connect with the hosts:

Madel Mazzella:

Instagram: ⁠@madelmazzella

TikTok: ⁠@madelmazzella⁠

Website: madelmazzella.com

Kaitlyn Rapai:

Instagram: @the_teacher_burnout_coach

TikTok: ⁠@kaitlyn_rapai_coaching⁠

Website: ⁠kaitlynrapai.com⁠

• Holidays can be such a conglomeration of festivities, commitments, stress, nostalgia, the joy of the anticipation of the big day and in general a beautiful time of the year for many but also stressful.

• We can become easily overwhelmed about the holidays if we want to please everyone, be the perfect host, go to every gathering, buy all the gifts, and look and feel festive while we’re at it.

• Some of us have to split ourselves and go to multiple homes so that everyone’s included and no one gets preferential treatment.

• But, we should also consider our wants and needs during this season. It’s important to communicate how we feel and the activities we want to attend or not. Communicating our needs from a place of love and care for ourselves allows others to do the same. It’s ironic that we can behave in the same manner we’re trying to avoid when we, unknowingly, try to manipulate others into doing what we want.

• Allowing others to be who they are also frees you to do the same. Be realistic with your expectations by letting go of perfectionism. Being flexible and adaptable will come in handy.

• Set boundaries with your time, money and energy. Decide ahead of time your budget for the season, the parties you’ll go to and the time you will need to spend alone. All of this can be done in a tasteful and loving way when you decide ahead of time how you want to experience the holidays this season.

Questions to help our perspective:

• What’s important about getting together?

• How do I want my experience to be this season?

• What do I value the most?

• What can I control?

• How can I let go of trying to control my family?

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Original Music by: Matthew Dotson

Cover Art by: Nate Rapai

[Disclaimer: Any views or opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of any educational institutions or organizations. This podcast is presented solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The hosts are not licensed therapists and their opinion does not substitute the advice of a physician or other qualified professional]