What you’ll hear
Holiday opinions can get loud—Stay later.Bring more.Why aren’t you married yet?
Today, we reclaim your peace with a simple filter—consider the source—and give you clear, kind sentences to use at real gatherings (plus a 60-second bathroom reset you can do anywhere).
Save these lines (copy/paste)
Staying late
- “I’m heading out at 8:30 so I can be fully present tomorrow.”
→ Pivot: “Who wants tea before I go?”
Extra tasks (“load creep”)
- “I can’t add mains, but I’ll bring dessert and tea.”
- “Two things I can do are A and B.”
Money & gifts
- “We’re keeping it simple—experiences over stuff this year.”
- “Our budget’s set; let’s plan a game night in January.”
Food/body comments
- “I’m listening to my body—this is perfect for me.”
→ Pivot: “Did you try the salad? It’s amazing.”
Screens & photos
- “I’m off my phone tonight. Send me your favorite photos later?”
→ “Let’s grab one quick picture by the tree.”
“Why aren’t you married yet?”
- Warm: “I’m building a life that fits me, on my timeline. I’m happy.”
- Values: “Commitment for me is about alignment and timing.”
- Playful: “Currently partnered with my peace. How are you this year?”
- Firm: “I don’t discuss my relationship status at gatherings.”
→ Pivot for all: “What was your favorite moment this year?”
The Boundary Ladder (choose your rung)
- Redirect: “I can’t stay late—how about I help with dishes now?”
- Limit: “I’m in for an hour.”
- Trade: “I can’t make sides, but I’ll pick up dessert.”
- Delay: “Not this week—circle back in January?”
- Decline: “That’s a no for me.”
- Exit: “I’m heading out—love you. Text me when you’re home.”
60-second reset (bathroom/balcony/hallway)
Feet flat. One hand on heart, one on belly.
Box breathe: in 4, hold 4, out 4, hold 4 (×3).
Name one thing you see, one you hear, one you feel.
Whisper: “I lead with my values.”
Re-enter with a task: “I’m refreshing waters—who needs one?”
2-minute Holiday Peace Plan
- Value + non-negotiable: “This week I lead with [value]; I will [specific thing].”
- Draft two scripts: one for time, one for workload.
- Pick one reset: the 60-second sequence above.
- Text one ally: “If I say I’m leaving at 8:30, cheer me on.”
Workshop
I’m hosting a capped Values-First Planning Workshop in early January so I can coach you live. Waitlist gets first dibs and a bonus Winter Word → 90-Day Map worksheet.
Email hello@daryamaeki.com with subject WORKSHOP WAITLIST.
If a moment lands beautifully this week because you used one line from today, I want to hear it. Merry Christmas, friend.
