How to Say No During the Holidays

Hi Friends!

The holidays this year look nothing like they ever have before, and let’s hope nothing like they will again.

Here in Ontario the Government has made their statement stating that we should all avoid seeing people outside our household during the holiday season. Especially those of use who are in lockdown zones.

Let’s be real as much as we can all understand the need to celebrate virtually this year, it’s still pretty upsetting.

I am confident that we all have someone in our lives who isn’t quite listening to these new standards set out and they are still very much wanting and planning to see others during the holiday season.

Let me be very blunt, you are aloud to say no.

If someone is constantly ask you, you are aloud to stop taking their calls.

You are aloud to do whats best for you, always.

Now before we all just start ignoring everyones calls, I would like to share some ways to politely decline invitations and such over the holiday season.

Simply say no and explain to the person that you are not comfortable seeing people outside your home during this pandemic. And hope that they just understand.

If you are living with other people, stick with ‘we’ statements. It’s important to have people on your side and there’s strength in numbers right? When you use ‘we’ statements not only are you letting the person know that you are not comfortable but so are others. It’s also really validating for you to feel like you aren’t alone and you are supported.

Try not to get aggressive. I know it can be hard to not use stern or angry tones when people ask you to do something outside of what you’re comfortable with but if you try and use a neutral tone it’s likely that the person you are speaking with will match your energy and be more understanding instead of becoming aggressive themselves.

Suggest an alternative that you’re comfortable with. If you are comfortable with an outdoor social distance visit, suggest that close to the holidays. If you have a backyard schedule a time to open gifts together in the backyard.

If people are still not accepting your no, well I think now we can start to avoid the phone calls. Honestly. No one appreciates their boundaries being crossed and I understand it’s uncomfortable to hold your ground when it comes to family, but hey this year has made all of us adjust in one way or another, this is just something else we need to adjust to! Stand up for yourself because at the end of the day you need to do what’s best for you.

One virtual holiday season isn’t going to ruin the holiday forever.

I wish you and yours a very happy holiday season filled with joy and love.