Dealing with Family Conflicts Over the Holidays

The holidays promise joy, but they so often deliver tension. Old wounds may resurface in family gatherings, replaying dynamics that bind us tightly and remind us why we may have distanced ourselves at times. These moments are rich in meaning, though they may feel unbearable.

Family conflicts often mirror early relational patterns. Perhaps the sibling rivalry at the dinner table isn’t just about now but holds echoes of childhood competition for love and attention. Holidays compress these stories into sharp relief, creating a stage for unresolved emotions.

These tensions also invite authenticity. Rogers would ask us to meet ourselves—and others—where we are, without masks or defenses. It’s not about fixing the family but about being present with what emerges.

When conflicts arise, breathe into the discomfort. Offer yourself empathy. Even: This is hard, and that’s okay. Name your feelings without judgment. Connection doesn’t always mean harmony; it can mean holding space for differences without losing the thread of love.