One complaint we often hear in relationships: "I don't feel heard." During the holidays, stress makes us bad listeners. We are so busy defending our point of view or checking our to-do list that we miss the heart of what our person is saying. Try the "Mirror" technique: When your spouse/child tells you something, repeat it back: "So what I hear you saying is..." It sounds simple, but it changes everything. It lowers defenses and builds safety. Want to master this? In our Connection Lab, we deep-dive into communication styles and practical tools to break the cycle of miscommunication. If you want 2026 to be the year you finally understand each other, click HERE

Every tree has one. It’s the macaroni star from 1998 that is falling apart. It’s the creepy elf that stares at you. It’s the pickle hidden in the branches. (Yes, we have that pickle ornament! Whoever finds if first on Christmas morning, gets to open the first present) We want to see the "Real Life" side of your holiday decor! Comment below: Describe the weirdest or ugliest ornament that you insist on putting on the tree every single year. Why do you keep it?

Tradition is beautiful. But when tradition becomes a cage, it’s time to re-evaluate. You might hear a lot of pressure from the "Them" (extended family) right now. "But we always go to Aunt Susan’s for 6 hours!" If a tradition causes your immediate family ("Us") stress, anxiety, or debt, you have permission to modify it. - "We can only stay for 2 hours this year." - "We are doing Christmas morning, just the kids and us." Reminder: You aren't being mean; you are being intentional. The health of your nuclear family is the priority.

Hey Connection Lab Group! We are kicking off the Silent Night Challenge by "Naming the Elephant." We know that "Discretionary Distractions" like social media or TV often feel like a necessary escape after a long day. But often, what feels like "decompression" is actually just "disconnection." As you identify your distraction today, let’s dig a layer deeper than just naming "the phone." DEEP DIVE DISCUSSION: When you reach for that specific distraction (the scrolling, the news, the busyness), what emotion are you trying to numb or avoid? Is it boredom, anxiety about the holidays, or just exhaustion? Let's get real in the comments: What is the specific "Elephant" in your room, and why has it been so hard to evict it until now? Don't forget to share your insight with your spouse... this is where connection begins.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner! While we love gathering, the holiday season can quickly become exhausting if we don't protect our peace. Setting boundaries isn't mean; it's necessary for managing your energy and reducing resentment. This is where knowing your core priorities comes in. Use this simple boundary framework to decide where your time and energy should go: 1. He: Your spiritual health and connection (God). 2. Me: Your personal rest and self-care. 3. We: Your marriage (You and your spouse). 4. Us: Your immediate family/kids (You, spouse, and children). 5. Them: Everyone else (Extended family, work, extra parties, etc.). When your He, Me, We, and Us needs are met, you have more quality energy for Them. If prioritizing your "We" means saying no to an extra obligation, that's okay! Application Question: What is one "Them" obligation are you going to intentionally say "no" or "not this year" to, in order to protect your "Me" or "We" time this holiday season? Let us know in the comments!