11. Kindling Joy Amidst the Stress, Pressure, Anxiety, Sadness, Tension, and Grief of the Holidays with Becky Keife
Let’s be honest, The Holidays bring a lot! There is a lot of goodness, but there is also a lot of extra work. A lot of activity. A lot of emotion. A lot of expectation. Sometimes, we’re simply just trying to fake it until we make it to mid-January.
Becky Keife, is a Southern California gal, an author, speaker, Bible teacher, wife, mom of three boys (13, 12, and 10), and the Engagement and Editorial Manager for the community, (in)courage.
In this episode of Courage Becomes Her, Becky talks about how to take care of yourself during the holidays, especially when they bring anxiety, sadness, stress, pressure, and grief. Becky shares openly about how she has dealt with family tensions and the dynamics of a broken family, how she has honored her grief and the memory of her Dad, how she navigates depression and anxiety, and attempts to kindle joy throughout the holiday season.
Be conscientious of your traditions, and if something isn’t working for you then change it – maybe the actual day that you celebrate doesn’t need to matter.
Build in margin between events.
Make space for sadness and grief, and not judge yourself or your feelings.
Make space to celebrate your loved one and honor your loss of them.
Be realistic about your limitations.
Be honest with your family about your needs and boundaries.
Be gentle with yourself.
Advocate for yourself.
Be present in whatever moment you’re in.
Simplify and do the things that bring us life, not because we feel obligated.
Resources from my conversation with Becky:
1000 Gifts book by Ann Voskamp
Hidden Christmas by Timothy Keller
Theology in the Raw podcast
Enter the giveaway to win a copy of the newest book from (in)courage, Come Sit with Me, as sponsored by Revell Books, through my November 22 post on Instagram.
Want to talk about your struggle with anxiety or depression, or your grief of the loss of a loved one, or parenting?
Feel free to reach out to Becky through her website or DM her on Instagram.
Share Your Stories & Guest Suggestions:
#couragebecomesherpodcast
We’d love to hear from you!
Production by Studio C Creative Sound
