I noticed it first near the sink.
Then again—coming from a power outlet, which feels both rude and impressive.
The house wasn’t suddenly broken. The weather just changed. Colder air found the gaps that had always been there.
The same thing happens with holiday boundaries.
The holidays don’t usually create new boundary problems. They reveal the ones already in place. More gatherings. More family dynamics. More expectations layered onto already full lives. When stress during the holidays increases, our emotional boundaries are tested—and the leaks become obvious.
For now, we’re doing what makes sense. We put a coat over the opening under the sink. It helps. The house feels warmer. And also—no one is pretending this is a long-term fix.
This is how many people cope during the holidays. We layer up. We push through. We rely on short-term coping strategies to manage stress and keep the peace. That’s not failure—that’s survival.
awareness changes things
Once you notice where the cold air is coming from, you can’t un-feel it. You start to recognize patterns: conversations that drain you, family roles that ignore your limits, obligations that slip past your boundaries because “That’s just how it’s always been.”
December isn’t the month for repairing everything. It’s the month for noticing. So, here are a few questions to help you get started:
You don’t need answers yet. Winter asks enough of us.
Next time, we’ll talk about how to strengthen boundaries in a way that’s sustainable—without turning your life into a construction zone. For now, noticing the leak is enough.
Need help setting or maintaining boundaries? At Lifeologie Counseling Dallas, we offer compassionate and practical therapeutic support, during every season. Our therapy team takes an open, curious, nonjudgmental and collaborative approach that will give you the tools, tips and support you need to navigate all the things related to your mental health journey. Book an appointment today with me in Texas, or explore our rapidly growing team of Lifeologie therapists near you to get started!