Part 2: Setting Specific, Realistic, Heartfelt Goals
- jbhoward429
- Nov 13, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Dec 12, 2024
Holiday Guide for Loved Ones of Addicted Adults
This article is the second in a series. To read the first article press the button below.
As we move deeper into the holiday season, we’re reminded that this time of year can bring joy, connection, and cherished moments—but it can also stir up complex emotions, especially when navigating family dynamics and supporting loved ones in challenging situations, especially addiction.
In our last post, we talked about setting goals for the holidays. Today, let’s dive into some practical ways to carry out these intentions. Here’s a list of simple yet powerful steps you can take to bring peace and clarity to the season. Consider picking one or two that resonate with you and giving yourself grace as you live them out.
Holiday Suggestions for Connection and Inner Peace:
“I will be kind and loving regardless of how anyone responds.”
Our kindness isn’t dependent on others’ reactions; it’s a reflection of our own inner peace and values. Choose to be kind for you, and let the rest unfold. Refuse to take the bait to engage in petty or argumentative conversations.
“I will give myself permission to step away and take a breath if things feel overwhelming.”
We can love and respect others while still honoring our own needs. A simple pause to breathe can bring us back to ourselves and help us stay grounded. Take the time to step away and pray and regain your composure if you need to. Memorize or write down scripture-based affirmations to have easily available if you need to be reminded of God’s truth. We have included some below.
“I will focus on meaningful conversations and not on fixing or managing anyone’s behavior.”
When we focus on connecting rather than controlling, we create more openness and trust. Let curiosity lead the way in your conversations. Seek to listen and understand. We form connections with the people we love when they feel that we see and hear them.
“I will set a limit on the time spent at gatherings if it feels best for my well-being.”
You’re allowed to set boundaries that feel comfortable. Sometimes a shorter, more peaceful visit is more valuable than staying beyond your limits. It’s better to leave wanting more than to stay until you are overstimulated. If it makes it easier to leave, make plans for after the event that require you to leave by a certain time even if the plans are just for you.
“I will remind myself that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions during the holidays.”
The holidays can bring up a lot. Let yourself feel whatever arises without judgment, knowing that all feelings are temporary. Observe the emotions that you are feeling and offer yourself grace when you feel things you would rather not feel. Perhaps God is showing you where you still have healing work to do.
“I will ask for support from friends or a support group if I need it before or after gatherings.”
Sometimes we need a place to process our experiences. Reach out to friends or groups who understand and can offer encouragement. Talk to a friend before going in to get your thoughts clear and your heart in the right place and plan to talk to that friend or another when you leave to process how it went and whatever emotions surfaced.
“I will focus on gratitude and small moments of joy, regardless of the circumstances around me.”
Whether it’s the smell of a holiday meal, a kind word, or a quiet moment, small joys are often the ones that fill our hearts the most. There are always things to be thankful for. Don’t miss out on all the positive things you have available to you because you are so consumed by grief or sadness by what you don’t have this year.
“I will speak and act with compassion, remembering that everyone has their own struggles.”
We often don’t know the weight others carry. By extending compassion, we create a space where healing and connection are possible. We are all dealing with things that the people around us know nothing about. Offer grace and give friends and family members the benefit of the doubt when friction arises. Be quick to forgive and slow to take offense.
Take this list as a reminder that you’re allowed to prioritize your well-being and act with intentional kindness, both for yourself and others.
Below are scripture-based affirmations to bring peace, strength, and reassurance when you need it most. Let these words remind you that, whatever you face, you are not alone. God is present, offering His unchanging love, peace beyond understanding, and strength that sustains. May these truths ground and uplift you through each day of this season.
"I am not alone; God is with me through every emotion I feel."
"The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love, He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” – Zephaniah 3:17
God’s presence is a constant source of comfort. Even when emotions feel overwhelming, I can lean on His steadfast love and know that He is right here with me, carrying me through.
"I can find rest and peace in God, even in challenging moments."
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
When I feel weary from the weight of caring and concern, I can turn to God and let Him carry what feels too heavy, finding peace in His gentle embrace.
"God’s strength sustains me when my own strength falls short."
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Even when I feel weak or discouraged, God’s strength renews me, lifting me up and giving me the resilience to face each day with hope.
"When I am overwhelmed, I can turn to God as my refuge and strength."
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1
God is my safe haven in times of trouble. No matter how chaotic things become, I can seek refuge in Him, knowing He is my steady foundation.
"I release my worries to God, trusting that He cares for me and my loved ones."
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
God’s love for me and my loved ones is greater than any worry I carry. I can lay my fears and anxieties at His feet, resting in His perfect care and provision.
"God gives me peace beyond what I can understand."
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
Even in the midst of uncertainty, God’s peace surrounds me, calming my mind and filling my heart in ways that defy understanding.
"I am anchored by God’s love, even in times of uncertainty and pain."
“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love.” – 1 John 4:16
God’s love is my anchor, grounding me and offering comfort. His unchanging love gives me stability and assurance, even when life feels unpredictable.
"I can surrender my burdens, for God promises to carry me through."
“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.” – Psalm 68:19
I don’t have to bear my burdens alone; God is with me every day, lifting the weight off my shoulders and providing the strength to persevere.
"God is close to me in my heartache, offering me comfort and hope."
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
In my deepest heartache, God draws near. He understands my pain and provides a gentle presence, bringing me comfort and the hope of healing.
"I am surrounded by God's love and grace, which are new every morning."
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
God’s mercy renews each day, giving me the strength and grace to begin again. His love is always present, faithfully guiding me forward with compassion.
May this season bring you moments of warmth, joy, and unexpected grace.
Comentarios