Navigating the Holidays with a Narcissist: Essential Tips from Caroline Strawson
It is in your power how your Christmas and holiday goes. Knowledge is power in that you know what they will behave like. Now you get to plan how you want it to be.
The holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy and togetherness, but for those dealing with narcissistic family members, it can feel like walking through a minefield. In this episode of The Narcissistic Abuse & Trauma Recovery Podcast, host Caroline Strawson dives into practical strategies for surviving the festive period when you have a narcissist in your life.
From the chaos of Christmas dinners to the tug-of-war over who gets the kids, Caroline offers a roadmap to navigate these stressful situations. Caroline, an award-winning trauma therapist and coach, brings her unique blend of tools—like Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, and Somatic Experiencing—to the table, helping listeners move from post-traumatic stress to post-traumatic growth. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, recognizing the traps narcissists set under the guise of holiday spirit, and prioritizing self-care.
You'll also learn how to minimize time spent with the narcissist and stop them from getting their supply. One standout tip Caroline shares is how to set up new communication methods to keep the narcissist at arm's length without letting them back into your life. This episode is packed with actionable advice that aims to empower you to reclaim your holiday joy.
So if you're bracing yourself for a difficult festive season, or simply want to understand more about narcissistic behavior, this episode offers valuable insights and support. Caroline reminds us that with the right tools and mindset, it's possible to have a peaceful and happy holiday season.