Let’s build up your inner spirit and give you strength for the holidays!

Try praising yourself as much as you can instead of criticizing yourself—tell yourself how well you are doing with every tiny thing.

Look in the mirror…look into your eyes and forgive yourself—you are doing the best you can. Don’t hate yourself for having negative thoughts…gently change your thoughts.

Tell yourself, “I love you…really…I love you.” (I know it seems awkward and perhaps silly, but just try it—you will feel better.)

Take a few deep breaths and release any tension you are feeling—blow it as far away as you can! Then stay quiet for a little while.

You will survive this holiday.

Do what you need to do. (Cry when you have to, escape to a private place when you need to be alone, rest when you can, reach out to your friends and allow them to help you—the way will seem shorter.)

And remember, I’m here if you need to share anything!

Melanie Hack
Author of Who Killed My Sister, My Friend
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