How to deal with grief around the changing seasons and holidays.
The transition from summer to fall to winter can bring a mix of many emotions. If the holidays, winter, or the end of the year are a difficult time for you, consider the following:
- What do I love the most about this part of the year? Is it the weather, or the traditions/celebrations? Is it the fond memories of years past? Share these positive associations with someone you know and you might learn what they like best, too.
- What brings you grief now and in this season during years past? Is it the loss of loved ones? Celebrations that no longer feel the same or bring the same meaning? Is it from regrets or sadness from experiences that didn’t go as you’d hoped? Now ask yourself: What does this grief tell me? What does it want me to understand about myself, my relationships, my purpose in life, and how can I use that understanding to create positive experiences in the new year?
It’s okay to feel more than one emotion about the end of the year, the changing of the seasons, the closing of one chapter and the approach of a new one. You aren’t alone in any experience you’re having, but especially during this time of transition.
