Relocation Impacts Family Holidays And Traditions

Christmas Chandle

Holidays are often spent with family.  There´s Father´s Day, Mother´s Day, Independence Day, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, etc. When you relocate, you will most likely be breaking tradition and this can be very difficult to endure, especially the first time.

For example, if you had a tradition of spending Father´s Day, or Independence Day with your parents, or your favorite neighbors, you´re going to notice that they´re not with you for that first holiday. Unless, of course, you´re all able to arrange to be together by traveling to one location, all the better!  But, for those of you that have spent years honoring a special day with specific people, you may feel a lonely on these holidays.

It´s especially hard if you´ve moved to a country that does not celebrate a big Family tradition (e.g. Thanksgiving in the US) or celebrates an occasion on a different day or month.  You may feel especially alone for these celebrations.

It´s important to realize that feelings of loneliness and loss are normal during these periods.

Here´s a few tips to help you if "holiday blues" hits you after relocating:

  1. Honor the feelings you have, and understand where they are coming from
  2. If you can´t be with loved ones, try to at least call them during the holidays so you can at least connect with them
  3. Remind yourself that you have the full power and ability to create new traditions.  Maybe you can´t be with your family, but it´s a great time to get together with new friends

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From Heather Markel, The Culture Transition Gal!