Trauma Survivor's Guide to the Holidays

I can't remember how I stumbled upon this gem and wish I did so I can give the author credit! The intention of this list is to empower you and act as a reminder that, despite the pressure to see family during the holidays, you always have a choice of HOW and WHEN you do it.
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1. You do not have to go to any holiday events that will hurt or trigger you.
2. You are not obligated to share space with your abusers, no matter what others desire.
3. You can decide to leave an event whenever it feels right to you.
4. You choose who you hug and who you allow to touch you.
5. You do not have to tolerate any comments that make you uncomfortable.
6. You do not have to “play nice” in order to please others.
7. You are allowed to choose the people you want to spend your holidays with.
8. You are allowed to set boundaries around conversations, time lines and people.
9. Anything or anyone that reduces your self-worth is not worthy of your time.
10. You do not have to do anything for tradition’s sake; some things are meant to change.