The holidays bring joy and connection—but they also tend to press on old wounds and expectations.
Maybe you feel that knot in your stomach at the thought of certain gatherings. Or you already know which family member will say that thing that makes your blood pressure rise.
Those reactions? They’re often tied to what I call “old tapes. "Beliefs we learned years ago, like:
- “If I don’t host, I’m letting everyone down.”
- “If I don’t show up to everything, I’m selfish.”
- “If the gift isn’t perfect, I’m not showing I care.”
Those stories may have once kept the peace—but now, they keep you trapped.
This year, you don’t have to keep pressing play. A trigger isn’t truth—it’s just an echo from an old story.
What’s one “old tape” you’re ready to stop replaying this season?