Spend time together, not divided by screens
Long holidays are always awaited. But ironically, many families fall into a situation of "living nearby but far away", each person with a screen, a world. Family reunification is not something that happens naturally, but needs to be nurtured by small but very necessary things.
The first thing, which sounds old but is always true: be really together. Holidays are not for each person to hug their phone, but for chatting, eating at the same table, doing housework, walking together. Just agreeing on a few "time slots without equipment", the family has more space to listen and understand.
According to Dr. John Gottman, family psychologist, co-founder of the Gottman Institute (USA), everyday interaction moments such as having dinner together, having short conversations every day have a strong impact on the sustainability of family relationships. “Connectivity does not come from big things, but from being present when loved ones need you,” he emphasized.
Together creating memories, although very simple
No need for a luxury trip. A homemade meal, a cleaning session, or watching an old photo album together are enough to create a common memory. Children need memories, adults need the feeling of belonging. Memories are an invisible thread that keeps generations closer together.
Besides, let each member participate in deciding joint activities. When everyone has a voice, they will have responsibility and a sense of respect.
Listen to each other more, judge less
Holidays are also a time when conflicts easily arise. Instead of arguing right and wrong, try listening to the emotions behind words. Sometimes, what relatives need is not advice, but just someone who is willing to sit and listen to the whole story.
Dr. Susan Krauss Whitbourne, a psychology lecturer at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (USA), believes that active listening helps reduce family stress and increase emotional security. “When listening, people are more open and cooperative,” she analyzed.
Preserve traditional family rituals
Reunion meals, greetings at the beginning of the day, or the habit of cleaning up together before the holiday... Small rituals but with great spiritual value. They create a feeling of stability, especially for young children, in a volatile world.
Show concern with specific actions
A thank you, a hug, or proactively helping with housework are all the clearest ways to express feelings. Don't wait until you are gone to regret not having had time to say words of love.
Holidays will pass, but the feeling of connection, if nurtured properly, will stay for a very long time. Family does not need to be perfect, just enough care so that no one sees you being forgotten.
It's a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit.
