Why You Might Be Obsessed With Christmas (And What It Says About Your Childhood)
Understanding the deeper reasons behind your holiday enthusiasm—and why that's actually beautiful
You LOVE Christmas. Like, really love it.
You’re the person who starts playing Mariah Carey on November 1st. You have strong opinions about tree decorating strategies. The sight of twinkling lights makes your heart swell in a way that feels almost childlike.
And maybe, just maybe, there’s a part of you that wonders: Why do I care this much?
Here’s something I want you to consider with gentle curiosity: If you grew up with a parent or caregiver who was emotionally immature or misattuned, someone who struggled to show up for your emotional needs consistently, Christmas might have been the one day you could count on.
One day of warmth. One day of structure. One day, when you knew exactly what to expect.
The gifts under the tree? They weren’t just presents. They were validation. Validation that you mattered. Validation that you were finally seen. Validation that you were worthy of love and care, even if that love came wrapped in a box instead of being spoken in words.
It makes so much sense that gifts feel like love to you now. For many who grew up with emotionally unavailable parents, receiving gifts became their primary love language. This is not because you’re materialistic, but because tangible objects were the most reliable form of affection you received.
That beautiful, over-the-top love you have for Christmas? It’s not silly. It’s not “too much.” It’s your inner child holding onto the one day she felt safe, seen, and maybe even special.
A gentle reflection
As you move through this holiday season, I invite you to notice what comes up for you around gift-giving and receiving. Notice if there’s a little voice that says, “If they really loved me, they’d get me the right gift.” Notice if you feel anxious about giving the perfect present to prove your love.
And when you notice these things, can you offer yourself some compassion? Can you acknowledge the younger part of you who learned that gifts = love, and let her know that you see her and that she’s allowed to enjoy the magic of the season while healing at the same time?
You don’t have to choose between loving Christmas and doing your healing work. You get to have both. 💛