Tips for Modifying Your<br />Traditional Thanksgiving Celebrations.<br />With COVID-19 cases in the United States<br />on the rise, many experts are suggesting <br />altering typical Thanksgiving plans.<br />Here are tips on how to politely modify<br />your traditional Thanksgiving plans and<br />avoid long-term fallout with family. .<br />1. Before speaking with relatives, decide<br />what level of risk you’re willing to take. .<br />If you’re trying to keep it small,<br />appease family members outside<br />of your household by connecting via<br />video chat in lieu of a traditional meal. .<br />2. No matter how much guilt<br />you may feel about changing<br />tradition, stick to your values. .<br />Craig Sawchuk, a clinical psychologist at the<br />Mayo Clinic, says making “decisions in our life” that<br />are consistent with our “values” is for the best. .<br />3. Talk to your usual guests now about any changes,<br />rather than waiting until the last minute. .<br />If you’re worried about how people will react,<br />write out what you want to say and be clear that your<br />concerns are for everyone, not just for yourself. .<br />4. If you’re open to compromise, be<br />sure you’re making the safest choices.<br />Consider hosting Thanksgiving outside or<br />spread the celebration across multiple dates.<br />5. Be ready for strong emotions when<br />you start to propose any changes.<br />If your family members don’t agree with making<br />change, try to frame it as creating “new rituals.”.<br />Dr. Angelle Richardson, a family therapist, suggests acknowledging that things are “different” this year<br />but reinforcing that it can still be a “fun” day.
