Join Lee Warwick, LMSW, in exploring what navigating polyamory during the holiday season can look like.
Navigating the holidays in general is already a complicated experience for many. Toxic family dynamics, pressure around appearance and food, and spending time with people you may not otherwise get along with are just a few of the challenges that most of us experience around the holiday season. As a polyamorous person, this time of year can be even more complex, even if it is also joyful.
When you have multiple partners, there might be a plethora of loved ones’ gatherings to attend. While this can be fun and exciting, it can also mean that you’re pulled in many different directions at once. Hard choices may need to be made, and feelings might be hurt.
You also run the risk of spending the holiday with folks who don’t understand or approve of your relationship structure.
This season, remember that your relationships are valid and your boundaries matter, no matter how they look. You are allowed to choose the gatherings that feel uplifting, and to give yourself permission to honor the connections that keep you grounded. Your choices may ultimately upset some people or not meet certain people’s expectations, but you are allowed to decide how you want to spend your time because your love deserves room to thrive, and you deserve to spend the holidays in whatever way feels right for you.
Communicate as openly as you can with your loved ones. Honor your values, needs, and preferences, and check with all parties to ensure everyone is getting out of the season what they are looking for.
Interested in exploring relationship dynamics in therapy? Lee is currently taking new patients! Learn more about working with Lee here.
