As Thanksgiving approaches, many people notice mixed emotions — gratitude, stress, sadness, nostalgia, or all of the above.


What are you hoping to protect or honor for yourself this Thanksgiving?

  • I’m hoping to protect my energy. I’m reminding myself that I don’t have to stay longer than I want or explain why I’m tired.

    — Anonymous

  • I’m trying to honor the fact that I miss someone this year. I don’t need to turn the day into something heavy, but I don’t want to rush past that feeling either.

    — Todd

  • Keeping my schedule light. I used to pack the whole day, and I’m realizing how much calmer I feel when I leave some breathing room.

    — Anonymous

  • I’m hoping to honor my need for quiet. Even if the day is busy, I’m planning to take a few moments to step outside or be alone if I need to.

    — Recovering People Pleaser

  • This year I’m trying to honor the grief of not having my kids with me for the first time. I’m reminding myself that feeling sad doesn’t mean I’m failing at moving forward, it just means this is a big transition. I’m focusing on getting through the day gently and letting it look different than past Thanksgivings.

    — Anonymous

  • This year I’m trying to honor my time and energy. I’m not cooking everything like I usually do, and I’m asking others to bring a few dishes. It feels a little uncomfortable, but I’m realizing I don’t need to do it all for the day to still be meaningful.

    — Ashley