Navigating the Holidays as a Couple: Planning for Connection in a Busy Season
As the holiday season and the end of the year are upon us, we face many competing priorities and demands, which can make us feel like we are being stretched in a million different directions. We want to show up and be fully present. We want others to know that we are committed and value the relationship we have with them. We also know that we only have so much to give and can’t meet everyone’s expectations. This stress and pressure can create tension and anxiety in our relationships with one another.
For couples, this can become even more evident and pronounced as there is less time to spend together, and many fewer opportunities to experience deep connection. With work schedules, challenging commitments, and so much demand on our time and energy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, to ignore our basic needs, and forget to work with our partner. However, this time of the year gives us a great opportunity to develop a plan together with our partner that can help both individuals more fully enjoy the holidays.
Here are a few tips I share with couples when preparing for a high-demand season of life:
1. Plan Ahead
Look at your calendars and commitments together. Decide what the absolutes are and what are not. Don’t overbook yourself or your partner.
2. Communicate Clearly
You both need to share with each other what you are thinking or how you are feeling about your plans and the situations you may find yourselves in. You also need to get on the same page about your plans.
3. Know Your Exit Strategy
When will you leave an event or family gathering? How will you communicate that to your partner before the event and in real time, should you need to leave earlier than originally planned?
4. Prioritize Connection
Schedule time for just the two of you. Be fully present. Lean into the relationship.
5. Offer Grace and Kindness
Sometimes unexpected things happen. You miss a flight, you both feel pressured to stay longer than you originally agreed, and you're tired and exhausted. The holiday season can be rough. Give each other a break and recognize that you are trying to find the most meaningful way to experience life together.
Overall, remember that this busy time is just one season of life. You may not get everything right and may not be able to attend to every commitment, and you don’t have to. You can get through this time together, just lean on and support each other.
Looking for more support in your relationship this season?
Reach out to Sparrow Counseling for a free 15-minute consultation.
Learn more about our caring, experienced marriage counselors.
Begin working toward a deeper connection, even in the busiest seasons.
Other Services Offered at Sparrow Counseling
At Sparrow Counseling, we offer in-person and online therapy in the state of Alabama. In addition to couples counseling, our team specializes in teen & pre-teen counseling, family therapy, co-parenting counseling, couples retreats, premarital counseling and pre-engagement counseling, discernment counseling, and more in Birmingham, Alabama. Learn more by checking out our FAQs and Blog!
Written by David Teel, an Associate Licensed Counselor at Sparrow Counseling in Birmingham, AL, under the supervision of Patrick Norton, LPC-S. With a background in faith communities and advanced training in Gottman Level 1 and Prepare/Enrich, David works with couples and families to build deeper connection, communication, and trust. His approach is warm, insight-oriented, and grounded in practical tools that help couples navigate life’s most stressful seasons together.