Ep. 28: Holiday Traditions: 3 Ways to Grieve What’s Lost and Find Joy in What’s New
It's not the tradition that matters. It's the connection that we create in the midst of it. It's the meaning that we make from the tradition. And we make that meaning. It's not the tradition that makes the meaning. ~ Michele Walter
🎄Do the holidays feel like a bittersweet mashup of “remember when” and “what the hell do we do now” as your traditions evolve (or disappear altogether)?
If your family traditions have changed over time—thanks to divorce, loss, kids growing up, or life just being life—this episode is for you. Whether you're grieving the past or figuring out how to create something meaningful now, this episode is your permission slip to grieve, honor your past, and reimagine.
🌟 This week, Michele dives into 3 tips packing with practical coaching tips and mindfulness practices to help you face the emotional rollercoaster of shifting traditions. From honoring your grief to deciding what truly feels joyful and aligned, you'll learn how to let go of what doesn’t serve you anymore and create space for new, meaningful traditions—without adding more pressure to your plate.
📝 Grab a journal or some scrap paper to try out the simple reflection exercises and mindfulness meditations shared in this episode.
🆓 And don’t forget to grab this week’s free download to guide you through these tips and practices.
🗝️ Key Takeaways
(5:24) Tip #1: Allow Space for Grief
Why grieving lost traditions is a healthy part of moving forward.
A heartfelt exercise to honor memories and validate your emotions.
(13:11) Tip #2: Find What Feels Aligned
Letting go of traditions that feel more like obligations than joy.
How to identify guilt traps and make space for what truly matters now.
(20:15) Tip #3: Embrace New Traditions Slowly
Why small, intentional steps lead to the most meaningful changes.
A gratitude meditation to ground yourself in what’s possible this holiday season.
(24:19) Closing Reflections
Grieving is normal, letting go creates space, and new traditions can bring deeper joy.
A final meditation to set your holiday intentions: May I honor the past, embrace the present, and welcome the future with an open heart.
WATCH/LISTEN TO THE EPISODE
REFERENCES FROM THE SHOW
💗 Episode 17: 3 Key Observations on Change and Transition
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