Holiday Cards Cured my Writer's Block: Getting Through the Tough Stuff with Community

Hey everybody, it’s Jill here.

I’ve been struggling for the past month with newsletter writer’s block. Should I address the election? Do I share some heavy stuff that’s come up in my family? Maybe pretend none of it is happening and focus on the holidays? Then while I was procrastinating doing work-things by getting my holiday cards together, I had a bit of an a-ha moment. I had literal cramps in my hands from labeling, and paper cuts on my tongue from sealing (no idea why I didn’t just use a sponge—lesson learned) when I was overcome by how much my pile of cards had grown. I thought wow, how lucky am I to be over 50 years old and still meeting new people, making new friends, reconnecting with old friends, and being part of an ever-expanding family?

And I realized this was the answer to all the rest. How have I been coping with the election and the world? Truthfully? By avoiding the news. But also? My people. How have I been processing my feelings about tough stuff? My people. And what have I been focusing on when it comes to the holidays? My people.

There is a term in psychology called co-regulation which refers to a process by which we can regulate our emotions through our interactions with others when they occur in a mutual exchange of support and comfort. We are wired for human connection, and safe relationships can soothe our nervous systems.

Whether close confidants or occasional text-types; in person or virtual; family, friends, or professional allies, our people can help calm us when we feel seen and understood. So when the going gets tough, which it inevitably will, seek out your people, focusing on those who are empathic listeners, who seek to understand, and who are able to sit with your discomfort as well as share in your joy, without judgment.

Wishing you ease, meaning, health, and connection this holiday season.