5 Tips for Getting Through the Holidays Despite a Separation from your partner

Getting through the holidays can be difficult for many people – for a number of reasons. If you are going through a separation over the holidays, it can be especially tough because you are not celebrating with your family the way that you’re used to. Fortunately, there are some things you can do that can help make the season a little easier. Here are a few tips for getting through the holidays despite a separation.  

  1. It’s okay to not be okay 

Let’s be honest-  a divorce is a really hard thing to go through, no matter what season or time of year it is. Change can be scary, and separation from your partner change almost every aspect of your life. You’re in a period of mourning over the loss of your old life – which can be particularly challenging during the holiday season that has usually been spent with family and friends. Allow yourself to process your emotions and work through how you feel – acknowledging that you’re not really okay right now, and you’re working through it. 

  1. Embrace the Change

While you will not be celebrating with the same traditions as you previously did, you have the chance to make new traditions going forward. If you have children, you will likely have a holiday agreement to see your children and co-parent with your ex-partner, so you can create new traditions with your children when they are visiting you. This year will look a little different than previous years did, but it’s a chance to embrace the changes coming and move forward into the future. 


3. Take Care of Yourself

You ended your relationship with your partner, but you will need to continue to work on the relationship you have with yourself. Take some time this holiday season to do the things you love to do – just for yourself. Maybe it involves taking a trip or booking yourself into a spa to relax. Whatever it is that you enjoy doing, value yourself and your very own company and take care of your wellbeing this holiday season. 

  1. Every Separation Looks Different

Your separation is not going to look the same as anyone else’s, even if you find that your friends and family are trying to give you advice on moving on or what you should expect. With this in mind, it’s important to make sure you do what feels right for you. Even if your friend’s sister was celebrating Christmas in full swing the first holidays after her separation, it doesn’t mean that you need to be there too. Take the time you need to make this holiday season work for you. 

  1. Talk to Your Ex-Partner 

Having children and going through the first holidays after a separation can be very tough on them. Even if the situation is tense with your ex-partner, try to discuss it with them and keep an open dialogue so that your children can enjoy the holidays with both of their parents. 

Working through a divorce is tough – even the most amicable divorces can be challenging around the holidays. Building new traditions with your family and friends can help you get through this time, and ensuring you keep honest communication with your ex-partner about your children will make things go a little smoother for everyone. 

If you are going through a separation this holiday season and need the assistance of a family lawyer, contact Nikan Barari Family Law to arrange a consultation today at (647) 483-2971.