How to Celebrate Holidays When Divorced?
The holiday season can be especially challenging for those who are divorcing or recently divorced. The traditions and celebrations that once felt comforting may now seem out of reach, and navigating this new reality can be tough. In 2020, with the added complexities of isolation and uncertainty, celebrating the holidays can feel even more daunting.
Hi, I’m Katherine Miller. I’ve been a divorce attorney in New York for over 30 years. Over the years, many of my clients have asked me how to make the holidays feel special despite the changes in their lives. Recently, I spoke with a client, whom I’ll call Anna (though that’s not her real name), who was struggling with how to celebrate the holidays with her children when their father wouldn’t be present, and their time needed to be split.
In response, my team and I put together a list of five tips for making the holidays feel special and meaningful, even when circumstances are different. Here are the first two tips:
- Honor Your Emotions: It’s important to acknowledge and embrace all your emotions during this time. Don’t try to suppress or ignore them. Instead, recognize and accept them as part of who you are. Celebrate the full range of your feelings, both positive and negative, as they are a natural part of your experience.
- Start New Traditions: If you’re celebrating with children, involve them in creating new traditions. Children take pride in contributing to new customs and rituals, and this involvement can make the holidays feel more special for them. It’s not just about what you or your ex-spouse can do, but how your children can help shape the holiday experience.
Don’t hesitate to reach out on our email address info@miller-law.com or call us at (914) 685-9805. Thanks for listening