We’re all going on a summer holiday, fun
and laughter on our summer holiday ………
“Isn’t it your turn to look after the children?,”
“All I wanted to do
was lay down and read a book, “
“Am I expected to have
sex every night?”
“I want to go for long
walks, cycling and you just want to laze around.”
“I’m exhausted”
“I’m on my own with the children and lonely …..”
Does any of that sound familiar or are these things you worry
about? Holidays are meant to be a time
to relax, to have fun, a chance to finally spend some quality time, to check in
with each other. Holidays have a lot to
live up to and we can pack our expectations into the suitcase next to the beach
towels without thinking about their weight as we check in or find the suitcase
does not fit in the boot of the car.
TOP TIPS for reducing holiday stress
•
Talk with your family about
what you each hope from the holiday.
Find out what each of you would like to do and how you can each support
each other in achieving this. Listen to
each other, don’t talk over each other and value each person’s
contribution.
•
Allow time for yourself and ask
your partner for help to achieve this.
Maybe you can negotiate rest times with your children! Remember to do things you enjoy.
•
If your holidays have become
built on commitments and traditions, think about which one remain important to
you and each other. It’s
ok to re-evaluate past traditions and maybe drop some to introduce new ones..
•
Don’t plan too
much. Allow time to relax with each
other.
•
If you are visiting family be
clear about your commitments and the time you will spend with them so you are
not struggling against their expectations.
•
Have fun when you are talking
about your holiday. Ask the children to draw how they would like the holiday to
be, talk over cocktails, wear a sombrero. Create joy together.
It’s
not about creating a perfect holiday because Life isn’t perfect, and holidays are part
of life. Embrace their imperfections.
