Sometimes, we make things a lot worse by the conclusions we come to about them. If we don’t monitor our thinking patterns, we run the risk of blowing up a scenario into something far more extreme than it actually is. Life is hard enough on it’s own - don’t make it worse by your interpretation. See if you have fallen prey to one of these mindsets.

Even with the Thanksgiving holiday still visible in our rearview mirror, it is surprisingly easy to get swept up into the hustle and bustle and hurries and flurries of the holiday season. There are so many decisions and errands and plans to be made when we have to decide between red or green lights for the tree; hot chocolate or egg nog; Aunt May or Uncle Bob’s house for hosting; or selecting the right Christmas movie between Frosty the Snowman or Die Hard. It is easy to forget to pause and be thankful when the holidays overwhelm us.

This past year has been hard on marriage. This past year has been hard on relationships in general. Our routines have changed. We do not like change. Our world has shrunk – less people to see and places to go. Maybe you work and educate your kids from home, not to mention trying to keep them occupied! Sounds super fun and not stressful at all. You long for the day when you can simply go back to the office or meet a friend for coffee. Your typical coping skills are limited, and you feel trapped or stuck. Sound familiar?