It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and also the messiest, the noisiest, and the most likely to send even the calmest among us into a full emotional tailspin.

This week Thrivesters, I’m coming to you surrounded by oyster-shell ornaments, cookie crumbs, and homemade wine toppers - because apparently, I still over-commit even while teaching YOU not to. It’s festive chaos over here, but it’s also exactly why today’s episode matters.

If you love the holidays and find yourself bracing for impact as soon as the extended family walks through the door, this one’s for you.

Here’s the truth we don’t talk about nearly enough:

Family dynamics have a special way of pulling us back into childhood roles faster than you can say “Who made this sweet potato pie?”

So today, I’m breaking down three ways to navigate all of it with clarity, humor, boundaries, and actual grace - not the kind you force through your teeth.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

1. Remember: It’s Not About You (Yep, I Said It)

2. Boundaries: Set ’Em, Say ’Em, Stick to ’Em

3. Go Inward: What’s Your Role Here?

You’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, you’ll definitely recognize a few holiday characters in your own life… and you’ll walk away with a plan to actually enjoy the season without losing yourself in the process.

Because Thrivesters - the holiday drama doesn’t get to control your experience.

YOU DO.

✨ Ready for stress-free holidays (for real)?

Join the Weekly Buzz for gifts, boundary scripts, and my favorite little holiday surprises.

Link in show notes.

✨ Thinking about Thrive Coaching?

January spots are open now, and the investment increases soon.

Click here to get the details.

Go out there and thrive like you mean it.

Links & Resources:

• Join the Thrive Hive and receive the Weekly Buzz: ⁠https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/MurXaK9⁠
• Grab my best-selling book Unmute Yourself: https://www.amazon.com/Unmute-Yourself-Speak-Stand-Out/dp/B094988YFD
• Follow me on Instagram: ⁠@nancy_medoff (https://www.instagram.com/nancy.medoff)
• Connect with me on LinkedIn: @nancymedoff (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancymedoff/)