Thanksgiving often comes with a set of expectations: big meals 🍽️, elaborate gatherings 🥂, and picture-perfect moments 🎥. But let’s be real—not everyone finds joy in those traditions, and that’s perfectly okay. The key is staying true to yourself—to thy own self be true—and creating a holiday that works for you. 🧡
This blog explores how to navigate Thanksgiving in a way that prioritizes self-care 💆🏾♀️ and authenticity, whether that means sticking with a traditional feast 🍗 or redefining the day entirely.
✨ To Thy Own Self Be True
Holidays are a time to connect—with others 🤝 and with yourself 🧘🏾♀️. The first step in making Thanksgiving a positive experience is knowing what truly makes you happy. 😊
- Love cooking a big meal? If the process of cooking fills you with joy 🎉 and you love the reward of seeing everyone together 🫶, then go for it! Recreate the “movie version” of Thanksgiving 🍂 and enjoy the tradition.
- Get frustrated without help? If preparing a feast 🥘 for a crowd leaves you stressed 😤 or resentful, keep it simple. ✂️ Do only what you can comfortably manage, and don’t hesitate to set boundaries 🛑 with those who expect more than they contribute.
💡 The takeaway: Only take on what aligns with your energy ⚡ and capacity. Traditions are meant to bring joy, not stress.
🤍 Letting Go of Guilt
One of the most liberating realizations I’ve had is this: people will make happen what is important to them.
- If someone really wants a big Thanksgiving dinner 🥳, they’ll find a way to make it happen—whether that’s cooking it themselves 👩🏽🍳 or organizing the meal.
- You’re not obligated to play host 🏡 or chef 👨🏾🍳 unless it’s something you truly want to do.
✨ Letting go of guilt frees you to focus on what you genuinely enjoy. 🌟
🍽️ A Holiday That Works for You
Whether you love hosting 🥂, prefer a low-key meal 🎬, or skip Thanksgiving altogether ✌🏾, the goal is to honor your own needs and preferences.
- For the Traditionalist:
- Go all out with your favorite dishes 🥧, but don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to others. Make it a group effort! 🤗
- For the Minimalist:
- Simplify your menu 🛒 using pre-made foods or a Thanksgiving TV dinner 🍛. Enjoy the essence of the holiday without the stress.
- For the Non-Traditionalist:
- Spend the day however you please—order takeout 🍣, volunteer 🛍️, or relax with a good book 📖 or movie 🎞️.
💪 A Note on Boundaries
It’s okay to say no 🙅🏾♀️. It’s okay to opt out 🙅🏽. And it’s okay to choose yourself this holiday season. 💕
Being true to yourself isn’t selfish—it’s an act of self-care 🪞. When you let go of the pressure 💨 to meet others’ expectations, you create space for a Thanksgiving that feels authentic and fulfilling. 🦋
🧡 Conclusion: Thanksgiving on Your Terms
Tradition is what you make it. Whether you’re serving a grand feast 🦃, a TV dinner 🍛, or just spending the day relaxing 😌, Thanksgiving can be a day of gratitude 🙏🏾, self-care 💆🏾♂️, and connection with what matters most to you.
This year, embrace the idea that you don’t have to make things happen for others unless it’s something you genuinely want to do. 💡 Let go of guilt, honor your needs, and celebrate Thanksgiving in a way that feels true to you.
Because at the end of the day, the most important tradition is being true to yourself. ✨
