Hello Everyone,
This is Sheri Joi, your host for Julie’s coaching calls. It have so enjoyed working with her this year. I learn something new every time we have a call. I could tell she was surprised to hear that I have also struggled with depression and loneliness on the holidays- even though I have a large, happy family. It’s all relative. I’m using her tips this year and have planned for all of the days that are special for me.
Here is one of Julie’s main points: How to deal with loneliness during New Years Eve!
Julie: One of the main problems we face is loneliness during specific days such as New Years Eve. I’m a big believer in planning ahead in order to prevent depression. If you don’t have plans for a day that’s important to you, there is still plenty of time! Is there a particular day that is hard for you? Think of EXACTLY what you want to do on that day and plan it NOW.
I find New Year’s Eve especially hard simply because I’m single (basically by choice, but it still feels lonely at this time of the year!) and we all know we have to kiss someone sexy and wonderful at midnight! Of course I am being silly here, but the media creates expectations that can’t always be fulfilled! This year I have plans ready for the 31st. I worked it out two months ago. Yes, I really do plan ahead.
What are your options for the last day of the year?
1. Visit Meetin.org or MeetUp.com to find some fun stuff to do. There are also activities and group events listed at Craigslist.org.
2. Create your own experience. Talk with people now and get something set up. Where will you meet? Where do you want to be at midnight? Maybe it’s at home watching TV with a friend. Maybe it’s going to a party or a club? It’s up to you. Do you want to have a party and invite people?
3. Call around and volunteer. This can start know. I know that it’s a particularly tough time for foster kids, for example.
Create what YOU want. Make this year special!
**Back to you Sheri Joi
Thanks Julie. I always love your tips. Here is a question for the audience. Did you know that Julie struggles with depression almost every day? I’ve seen how planning ahead helps her manage bipolar disorder. I’m so proud of her. I’ve been through my holiday depression- and I agree with Julie. It’s up to us to make the holidays special.
Sheri Joi
I started a new thing at my house on New Year’s Eve last year. My mom and I decided to have a game night. I invited my friends from my support group and she invited a few of her friends and we talked and ate pizza and played games all night. We’re doing it again this year. It’s really fun. No alcohol, just soda and cider. And instead of kissing people at midnight, which I’ve never done, we carry on my old tradition of dragging out all of our pots and pans and yelling and banging them together and waking up the neighbors at midnight. 😉 It’s a lot better than sitting at home alone watching Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve in my pajamas and eating ice cream or falling asleep.
-Michelle
What a great idea. I will be with three kids, so there will be some noise as well! What matters is that we are where we want to be- with the people we want to see! Julie
I thought I had Thanksgiving all planned out. Then today, last minute, my X husband invited the children over for breakfast. EEEEEEKKKKKK I know that it is his right to have them some on the holidays, but it would be nice to have a little more notice. In the past I have called to see if he has made his plans, but he is always last minute. It really fries me. My new plan is to turn up the heat and heated blanket, watch the parade while I work on my crochet project and drink peppermint hot chocolate. (and try not to have an attitude when the kids come home) Have any idea’s how to make Christmas go smoother with the X (Kids are too old for parenting plan)
Hello Will you be posting the recording of the phone call on November 22 regarding how to deal with the holidays?
I would lI’ve to hear it.
Thanks