African american couple hanging toys on a Christmas tree
As Christmas rolls around, it can either be a season of cheer or a season of fear. It also can put an extra and unnecessary strain on your relationship as it can be so stressful.
This, being the first Christmas we’re celebrating freely post-Covid: the lockdowns, the quarantines and the financial hardships, it’s important that we be extra careful. The planning, the negotiations—whose parents you should visit this year—the financial strain of gift-giving, decorations, food, the atmosphere, the mood, greeting cards and messages can make you want to pack away the mistletoe.
Don’t let this season cause rifts between you and your family.
Instead, careful planning can help you avoid these rifts and unnecessary arguments. Couples, you should understand the importance of coping with extra expenses and parties. Don’t spend your all year’s efforts on a day’s event. Remember, January will be here in few days and school fees also awaits you. So, plan carefully, cut on extra and unnecessary expenses
Choosing to stay with extended family members or choosing to have them over for the holiday isn’t a bad idea. In fact, you’ll get to know each other more and better. But, remember, it’ll be costly if you don’t have enough money to take care of all their needs as it’ll force you to go deeper into your pockets to provide for them.
If you’ve to drink or party, then do it responsibly. The decisions you make this Christmas season will impact your family either negatively or positively. Do not spend all your savings on making your friends happy. Remember your children, they need school fees and also, starting a year broke will have a negative impact on your mental health.
Don’t drink and drive. Your children, siblings, spouse, parents, friends and colleagues, they all need you, alive and in good shape.
During this festive season, it’s important to pay extra attention to your relationship with each other. Divvy up your chores, be generous with your time, be forgiving and extra loving.
Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2023!
Naomi Makassi from Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, is a graduate of Rongo University who finds passion in helping young adults build successful relationships through writing.
