Holiday Boundaries

Six ways to say, “no” during the holidays

Photo by Joanna Kosinska on Unsplash

December means family traditions, friend parties, presents gifted and received, special mail, school spirit week, community service, holiday concerts, travel, cookies, and so many other good things! 

December should consider adopting the motto, “Too much of a good thing!”

So how can you be the healthiest version of yourself during the craziest time of the year? 

By creating healthy boundaries with the simple word, “no.”

Brene’ Brown reminds us that, “Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others.”

To make your boundary-setting a bit easier this year, here is a list of 6 (kind) ways to say “no” during the holidays: 

1. “I’d love to help but I’m not sure about our family’s plans right now. I would hate to make a commitment and not be able to follow through. I will keep you updated if things change.”

2. “What a great idea! I would normally love to go to something like that but I’m already overcommitted. Maybe I can come next time.”

3. “That sounds great but I’ve been running on empty lately and the thought of adding anything else to my schedule seems overwhelming. Thanks for thinking of me!” 

4. “How exciting! Thanks for thinking of me. Honestly, my schedule is already so full that I’m trying to cut things out and not add anything new. I hope you have lots of fun!”

5. “That sounds like a blast! My family and I just set our budgeting priorities for the month and we won’t be able to fit this in, too. Thanks, anyway!”

6. “That sounds wonderful! Unfortunately, that falls on family night so I won’t be able to join you. Maybe I can come next time.”

Happy holidays!