Ctrl Shift CommUnication

Let's talk about communication!

This holiday season, you will likely be interacting a little more with family members. Maybe you will talk with relatives you do not see very often. Thanksgiving and Christmas can be magical, but they can also be extremely stressful and anxiety inducing. 

Before you find yourself three hours deep in a heated political debate, take some time to think about the dynamics of communication. 

Do any of these healthy/unhealthy communication traits seem familiar to you? Identifying the presence of interpersonal dynamics is important in relationships. 

If you recognize some of these unhealthy responses in your own communication, now is the time to keep yourself accountable. 

Try and replace a single unhealthy tendency with something healthy. For example, if you tend to interrupt people when they are speaking, instead, be extra intentional with your listening. 

If you recognize unhealthy communication coming from a family member, understand that they may not be aware of the damage such actions can cause. Kindly share how their behavior makes you feel, and understand that it may take time for them to fully comprehend the weight of their influence.

Family time can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be impossible this holiday season!

If you are overwhelmed by the stress, let’s connect for a consultation. If you found this helpful, share this with friend or colleague.

With Balance & Wellness,

Shayla Peterson, LCSW, LISW-CP