The holiday season often brings a surge of connection and closeness.
As the seasons draws to a close, though, maintaining that emotional connection can become challenging. Here are strategies to keep that closeness throughout the year:
Technology is often cited as something that has made us feel hyper-connected, but less intimately connected. But it doesn't have to be that way.
Regular video calls can be a great way to keep up with family members, especially those who live far away. Apps like Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime allow for face-to-face interactions, making conversations more personal than a simple phone call or text message. Consider setting a recurring virtual family hangout, perhaps weekly or monthly, to catch up, share stories, or even watch a movie together online.
Studies show that our wellbeing improves when we have things to look forward to and have events, traditions, and connections to anchor our year.
Traditions don’t have to be limited to the holiday season. Creating year-round family traditions can give everyone something to look forward to. This could be as simple as a monthly family game night, seasonal outings, or celebrating non-traditional milestones together. These traditions help in creating shared memories and experiences that strengthen familial bonds.
Encourage an environment where family members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Open communication can be facilitated through regular check-ins. Ask open-ended questions about their life, showing genuine interest and empathy. Communication isn't just about talking; it's equally about listening.
Small gestures can make a big difference. Sending a handwritten letter, a care package, or even a thoughtful text can remind your family members that they are on your mind. These acts of kindness can bridge the physical distance and keep emotional connection strong.
With the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose track of what’s happening in each other's lives. Make an effort to share updates, whether it's about a new hobby, work achievements, or just daily occurrences. Encourage your family members to do the same.
We need both deeper conversations and the small check-ins of daily life to support our social and emotional wellbeing.
Group family dynamics are important for our wellbeing. But our family dynamics are the product of our individual relationship dynamics; cultivating individual relationships with each family member is equally crucial. This might mean having one-on-one conversations, going on individual outings, or sharing specific interests with different family members. These individual bonds contribute to the overall strength of the family connection.
Life gets busy. Really busy.
Take time to reflect on the importance of your family and express gratitude for them. Sometimes, simply acknowledging the value of family relationships can reignite the closeness and connectedness we feel when we're all under the same roof.
Maintaining an emotional connection with family after the holidays is about intentional effort and creative engagement. It’s about creating space for emotional visibility, support, and shared context. With thought and intention: connection doesn't have to be seasonal.
With gratitude,
UpBeing
