Why Holidays Increase Stress

In this special Black Friday episode, I dive into a much-needed conversation about emotional reset. As the holiday season ramps up, many of us are carrying stress, tension, and unprocessed emotions that make us more reactive and less connected. In this short but impactful solo episode, I walk you through how to reset three vital areas of your life—your mind, your marriage, and your relationship with your kids—before the craziness of December takes over.

If you've felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or simply exhausted lately, this episode offers practical and heartfelt guidance to bring intention, clarity, and presence back into your home.

[0:00] – Introduction

[1:02] – Why this time of year can feel especially heavy and chaotic

[2:22] – The three things to reset before the holidays: mind, marriage, and kids

[3:04] – A tactical Black Friday shout-out and 50% off gear at thedadedge.com/shop

[3:58] – Resetting your mind: the power of a quiet, tech-free 30-minute walk

[5:03] – How constant busyness keeps us distracted and emotionally exhausted

[6:38] – Resetting your marriage with one simple and honest check-in conversation

[7:23] – Real-life example of how Larry leads open dialogue with his wife

[9:12] – Resetting your connection with your kids through gratitude and shared plans

[10:10] – What Larry's son said he wanted to do together before Christmas

[10:29] – Why you shouldn't wait until January 1st to reconnect with your family

1. Resetting Begins with Stillness: Unprocessed stress makes us reactive and distant. A quiet 30-minute walk without media can bring clarity, calm, and presence back to your day.
2. Marital Tension Needs Check-Ins, Not Grand Gestures: One intentional conversation with your spouse—asking how they're doing and what needs to be talked about—can diffuse tension and bring closeness back.
3. Children Want Time, Not Things: Asking your kids what they loved about the year and what they want to do together before Christmas creates meaningful connection during a busy season.
4. Don't Wait for the New Year to Start Over: You can recalibrate your emotional tone now. Waiting for January 1st delays the connection your family needs today.
5. Great Dads Lead with Emotional Tone: Your mindset, your calm, and your intention set the atmosphere for your entire home. Lead it with purpose—especially during the holidays.

• Black Friday Sale (limited time): https://thedadedge.com/shop – Use code FRIDAY for 50% off all gear

• Download the "25 Questions" PDF for better connection with your kids: https://thedadedge.com/25questions

• Episode Show notes: thedadedge.com/1407

If this episode resonated with you, take 30 minutes today for yourself—and 10 minutes with your family. Then rate and review the podcast, and share it with a fellow dad who could use a reset.

Live legendary.