DITCH YOUR EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE

Even the sunniest of summers can bring tense situations to the fore. How you deal with them is key

Worried you’ll fall out with your family by the time you reach the airport, or get all dressed up for a celebratory meal, only for it to end in disappointment and tears? While the holiday season promises fun and adventure, leaving your emotional baggage unresolved has the potential to ruin things.

But there is hope. ‘Everything you think, feel and do is a collection of learned habits, which can often leave you feeling increasingly dissatisfied and uncomfortable,’ says wellness coach Haifa Barbari. ‘The good news is that new habits can be easily kick-started’ – without expensive therapy. Here’s how to neutralise your triggers and stay cool if you’re faced with travel disruption and family tiffs this summer.

1 DITCH YOUR INNER CRITIC

When others complain that the weather is worse than forecast, do you take it personally? Positive reinforcement may have been in short supply in your formative years. ‘Constant criticism from loved ones can make us overly sensitive,’ says mindset coach Jeremy Snape.

DO IT

‘Turn your inner critic into a voice of insight,’ says Haifa. ‘Using my PEA framework: Pinpoint what the critical story is saying; Elevate it to a kinder, more positive story; and Act – decide on one small action you can take to reaffirm the more positive message.’ So, when people start grumbling about the rain, remember that it’s not personal, everyone is feeling the pressure to make the most of their time off. Suggest a wet- weather activity to keep morale high.