How to Survive the Holiday Season

Dec 19, 2023

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Episode notes

The Christmas season can be a time of stress and disappointment, especially when our expectations don't match up with reality. We can find ourselves dealing with difficult family members, feeling overwhelmed with work and family obligations, or experiencing a general sense of dissatisfaction.But there’s plenty we can do to make the festive period more enjoyable and less overwhelming.

This week, we’re revisiting a previous conversation on the podcast, with Corrina Gordon-Barnes. In her chat with Rachel, you’ll learn how to turn expected disappointments into a game of bingo, set realistic expectations, and exercise some self-compassion.

By taking proactive steps, we can create a more positive and fulfilling Christmas experience.

Listen to this episode to

Learn strategies to cope with the expectations and negative experiences that come with the holiday season
Discover the concept of playing "Christmas Bingo" to approach disappointments with humour and acceptance
Gain insights on how to navigate triggering situations and avoid falling into familiar patterns of conflict

Episode highlights

[00:03:59] Christmas disappointments
[00:09:02] Christmas Bingo
[00:13:30] What you can do to avoid disappointent
[00:16:19] Playing out the old dances
[00:21:33] Your zone of power
[00:27:15] Lowering your expectations
[00:39:20] Self-compassion in the face of disappointment
[00:43:39] Hunt the Pony
[00:44:51] Handling regret
[00:49:22] Corrina's top 3 tips

About the guest

Dr Corrina Gordon-Barnes, CPCC, coaches new managers in time management and giving effective feedback. She’s passionate about seeing workplaces where colleagues speak honestly, give and receive feedback gracefully, and act with integrity. She believes these environments make it much easier to be innovative and effective, hit deadlines, and create the most powerful impact.

LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Website

Resources

THRIVE Weekly Planner
Should I Stay or Should I Go? – Episode 89 with Corrina Gordon-Barnes
How to Ditch the Saviour Complex and Feel More Alive – Episode 88 with Rob Bell
Download the episode’s workbook and CPD form. You can use them for reflection and to submit for your appraisal.

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Mentioned in this episode:

Say it So You’re Heard
A crib sheet for clear and calm communication in high-stress moments.

Permission to Pause
A free 60-minute sanctuary for doctors – a quiet hour in the middle of winter where your role can fall away and you can reappear.