(so you can get through them)
This list is compiled from readings (and audio, podcasts) that have helped me shift my perspective thereby shifting how I experienced large gatherings.
1. Boundaries
So much of what we learn growing up isn’t correct. Not because of our primary caregivers (no blame) but even how society and our cultures think about boundaries. But for the sake of your well-being, these podcast episodes will shed some light.
Recommended episodes from The Life Coach School Podcast:
- No. 12: Boundaries
- No. 82: What Should I Tolerate
- No. 163: Boundaries 2.0
- No. 490: Boundaries vs. Avoiding
2. the art of gathering
This is one book I’ve read multiple times. She goes over the ins and outs of what makes any gathering (and I do mean any gathering) successful and not so successful. It’ll also save you some heartache when planning large gatherings like weddings, etc.
The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker
3. gifts & presents
This is so cringe for me but I’ll tell you what. If you’re hung up on this and always disappointed in giving gifts to others this one is for you. Especially if your love language happens to be gifts.
When is something truly a gift? This article will give you the answer.
4. overdrinking and overeating
This book helps explain why we’re so prone to indulge in the now (buffer and numb ourselves) and not wait for long term benefits. There are nuggets of useful information and so if you like understanding how the brain works so you can change a “bad” habit then this book is for you.
Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke
5. small talk
If you’re headed into lots of office parties, family get togethers and even networking (or dating) this take on small talk by comedian Trevor Noah has a lot of insight. As someone who used to detest small talk I now embrace it and I’m quite good at it.
This interview with Trevor Noah (the part about Small Talk is in the beginning) might change your mind.
6. kids
It seems like the holidays would be easier with little ones. I mean, they’re getting lots of presents, right? But it can be stressful with all the commitments and unsolicited advice. This book isn’t just about the holidays but about how much easier parenting can be when we let them Rest, Play and Grow. This book changed how I parent and I’m so glad I read it!
Rest, Play and Grow by Deborah MacNamara
7. money
This podcast comes at money from a different angle. We often think that if we had more money or time we could do all the things. And this comes up a lot during the holidays. Stacey Boehman in her podcast Make Money as a Life Coach (don’t be fooled by the title) tackles what you think about your resources in this podcast episode entitled RESOURCEFULNESS.
8. decluttering
Marie Kondo and the KonMari method are already well known. But here I invite you go back to her first book to tackle the issue of “having stuff”. It isn’t necessarily about decluttering after the holidays. It’s about appreciating the stuff you have and honouring it. Minimalism can be done with Maximalism – the idea of keeping the things around you that spark joy!
The Life Changing Art of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
9. family dynamics (for fun!)
Whatever your family dynamics are, this is a fun way to get a fresh look at yours. The novel, “The Paris Apartment”, will have you cozying up to a mystery that approaches the subject of family. It may make you appreciate the one you have.
The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley
10. compassion (feel good!)
This novel, “The Afterlife of Holly Chase”, surprised me. It’s a YA book that’s a retelling of Ebenezer Scrooge’s story. It’s light-hearted and a fun way to look at redemption. We all make mistakes and in some pockets of our life we get a chance at a do-over. It’s feel-good all the way. And since it’s YA you can read along (or listen to the audiobook) with other family members!
The Afterlife of Holly Chase by Cynthia Hand
share with someone who needs this:
Tara Rama 