Staying Grounded Through the Festive Season: A Guide for Women Navigating Family Gatherings (Part 3).
Part 3: exit strategies that keep you safe.
If you haven’t read Parts 1 and 2 of my Festive Season blog you can go back and check them out.
Each week I’m introducing a new topic which, I hope, will help you to manage the ‘silly season’ with serenity, peace and more joy than you normally feel.
This week I talk about boundary setting and how to plan an exit strategy to safeguard your own wellbeing.
Christmas often stirs up old family patterns. No matter how much time passes, certain comments or behaviour can hit a nerve as if no time has gone by at all.
Sometimes the best boundary you can set is knowing when to leave.
Christmas gatherings don’t have to be endured at all costs - your wellbeing comes first.
why an exit strategy matters
Staying longer than feels safe or comfortable can escalate stress and put you at risk of emotional or physical harm. Having a plan to leave allows you to honour yourself without guilt.
Here is a simple exit plan which you can organise ahead of time to alleviate some of the lead up and last-minute stress for yourself.
Step 1: Arrange your transport.
Drive your own car so you can leave when you’re ready.
If driving isn’t possible, pre-book a taxi or ride-share.
Let a trusted friend know where you are and when you plan to check in with them.
Step 2: Have an exit phrase.
Sometimes leaving feels difficult because of what others might say.
Preparing a simple phrase can ease the pressure:
“Thank you for having me, I’m heading off now”.
“I’ve got an early morning tomorrow, I’ll leave you to enjoy the night”.
“It’s been lovely to see everyone, I need to get going”.
You don’t owe anyone a detailed explanation. Keep is short and sweet.
Step 3: Create safe checkpoints.
If you know the day may become heated, set yourself ‘checkpoints’ in advance.
E.g.: If by 3pm I feel tense or drained, I give myself permission to leave.
a grounding tool.
Carry something small and meaningful:
Like a stone, bracelet or essential oil tissue.
Touching it can remind you that you are:
safe
in control
grounded
can choose to leave when you need to.
closing thought.
Your presence is valuable, but your safety is more important. Leaving is not failing it’s choosing yourself.
Planning ahead with an exit strategy gives you a sense of safety and choice in moments that once felt overwhelming.
Next week I’ll talk about staying grounded throughout the day and give you a couple of practices you can use to help steady and calm yourself.
