Holiday Survival Guide Worksheet

This Holiday Survival Guide Worksheet is designed to help you navigate the season with confidence and self-compassion. Use it to prepare for potential challenges, set boundaries, and create a plan that prioritizes your well-being.

1. Reflect on Your Triggers

Think back to previous holiday experiences. What were the most challenging moments, and why? Use the space below to identify common triggers:

Examples of Triggers:

• Certain people or conversations.

• Sensory overload (e.g., loud music, crowds, bright lights).

• Grief, loss, or trauma-related anniversaries.

My Triggers:

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

2. Plan Your Boundaries

Boundaries help protect your emotional and mental energy. Write down your boundaries for this holiday season:

Examples of Boundaries:

• Limit time spent at events.

• Say no to triggering activities or topics.

• Avoid people who make you feel unsafe or drained.

My Boundaries:

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

Scripts for Declining or Setting Boundaries:

• “I appreciate the invitation, but I won’t be able to attend this year.”

• “Let’s focus on positive topics tonight.”

• “I need a little break. I’ll step outside for a few minutes.”

3. Pack Your Holiday Survival Kit

Having calming tools on hand can help ground and soothe you in stressful moments. Fill in the items you want to include in your kit:

Examples:

• Noise-canceling headphones.

• Fidget toys or grounding stones.

• Favorite snacks or beverages.

• Essential oils or calming scents.

• Journal and pen for reflection.

My Survival Kit Items:

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

4. Create a Social Pacing Plan

It’s okay to take breaks or leave when needed. Write your plan for pacing yourself during social events:

Examples:

• “I’ll take a 10-minute break after every hour.”

• “If I feel overwhelmed, I’ll step outside to reset.”

• “I’ll drive myself so I can leave if I need to.”

My Social Pacing Plan:

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

5. List Your Allies

Identify the people or resources you can turn to for support:

Examples:

• A trusted friend or family member at the event.

• A therapist or counselor.

• Online support groups or hotlines.

My Allies:

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

6. Plan Post-Holiday Decompression

After the festivities, give yourself space to recover and process your emotions. What will you do to recharge?

Examples:

• Spend a quiet evening with a book or movie.

• Take a long walk in nature.

• Journal about the day’s events.

My Decompression Plan:

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

7. Affirmations and Mantras

Write down a few affirmations or mantras to ground you during tough moments:

Examples:

• “I have the right to prioritize my well-being.”

• “I am safe, and this moment will pass.”

• “I am enough, just as I am.”

My Affirmations/Mantras:

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

• ______________________________________

Final Thoughts: Holiday Vision Statement

What does your ideal holiday season look like? Write a short vision statement that reflects how you want to feel and what you hope to prioritize this year:

Examples:

• “I will create a holiday that feels peaceful and true to me.”

• “I will focus on small joys and let go of perfection.”

• “I will honor my needs and set boundaries with confidence.”

My Holiday Vision Statement:

Bonus: Print-Friendly Checklist

1. Reflect on triggers and plan for challenges.

2. Write clear boundaries and practice setting them.

3. Pack a calming toolkit.

4. Create a social pacing plan with exit strategies.

5. List allies and support resources.

6. Schedule post-holiday decompression.

7. Repeat affirmations as needed.