12/15/2025
If you’re dreading the holidays, please know this: you’re not alone.
For grieving hearts, December can feel like a spotlight on what’s missing — traditions that have changed, empty chairs, expectations that no longer fit.
You might feel pressure to be cheerful.
You might feel guilty for not feeling festive.
You might feel torn between wanting to participate and wanting to disappear.
None of that means you’re doing grief wrong.
Here are a few gentle truths to hold onto this season:
✨ You’re allowed to change traditions
✨ You’re allowed to say no without explaining
✨ You’re allowed to feel joy and sadness at the same time
✨ You’re allowed to protect your energy
✨ You’re allowed to grieve in your own way
You don’t need to “push through” December.
You don’t need to pretend.
You don’t need to meet anyone’s expectations but your own.
Grief doesn’t take a holiday — and neither should compassion.
If this season feels heavy, let it be softer.
Let it be slower.
Let it be yours.
If you’re dreading the holidays and need support beyond survival mode, I’m here. Message me (victoria@theunleashedheart.com) or message me in my socials to learn how the Grief Recovery Method can help you move through this season with more peace and less pressure.