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Thriving the Holidays: Setting Expectations
Finding Hope Family Support Groups
Written By
Finding Hope Team
Thriving the Holidays: Setting Expectations
Have you heard the phrase: Unrealistic expectations lead to realistic disappointments.
What does that mean to you?
Unrealistic expectations can rob us of enjoying and appreciating the blessings in front of us. We need to remember that, no matter how much we plan, plead, and beg, our family may not change just because the holidays are here. This year's holiday season may look and feel different than those in the past; we have to accept that and still find joy during the season.
As we approach the holidays, think about your expectations. Write them out and then go back and reread them to determine if they are realistic or not. If they are realistic, what is your plan to communicate them to your family? If they are unrealistic, what do you need to do to change it? Reach out to another Finding Hope member to talk through your expectations for the upcoming holidays.
Here are a few tips from those in recovery for families to know as they approach the holidays being clean and sober:
- Love them where they are. Encourage and praise them for their accomplishments.
- Don’t bring up the past, and don’t ask a lot of questions about the future. They are taught to focus on one day at a time.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 ESV
With hope,
Amy LaRue, Director of Family Support Groups
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