Being Grateful: 10 Things to Be Thankful For When You’re Dealing With A Toxic Family Member

It’s that time of year again. Thanksgiving and the other holidays are here.

With that said, here are the top 10 things to be thankful for when you’re in the midst of dealing with a toxic family member during the holidays.

And they just might apply to you too.

Top 10 Things to Be Thankful For

#10 – Indoor plumbing

Running water, modern toilets, and sewer systems are all important. Let’s face it. It would be a big mess otherwise. The plumbing salesman from the Mel Brooks movie History of the World: Part I says it best: “Pipe the shit right out of your house!”

Not to mention if you happen to live with your toxic family member or even you’re just visiting, the bathroom is always a convenient sanctuary when you need one.

#9 – An Internet Connection

Your Internet connection connects you with virtually everything, which is especially relevant here since you couldn’t read this without one.

#8 – Facebook Support Groups

These groups allow you to discover and have conversations with similar people with shared problems and – hopefully – find solutions. Maybe you would be well-served to join our group?

#7 – Books, Magazines, and Blogs

Take a break and get lost in another world or learn something new. It’s only a page turn or click away.

#6 – Waking Up In The Morning

Life is difficult, but each sunrise brings new hope. Yesterday is wiped away and you can start anew.

#5 – Boundaries

If you’re dealing with a toxic relative, make sure you set boundaries. If someone is not being nice and is highly critical of you, let them know what they say makes you feel bad. You also have a duty to let them know you won’t stand for that type of treatment. Consequently, make sure to stand your ground no matter what.

#4 – Pain

Feeling pain can be good. Only by experiencing pain can you identify and acknowledge what it feels like to be happy.

#3 – Wisdom

Having wisdom means you learn from your mistakes and some things you only learn from experiencing them.

#2 – Fear

Facing your fears forces you to get out of your comfort zone and meet someone new, learn something different, and face the unknown with courage.

#1 – You and Your Voice

You’re the only one of your kind. You are unique. You have a voice. Because of all these reasons. Use it. Speak up.

Now it’s your turn.

What are you thankful for? Tell me in the comments below or join our Facebook group and spout off there!