Tips to Stay Connected with Your Family During the Holidays

The holidays are a time to be with family; if you're working abroad, that can seem impossible. Knowing what will work best for your family is hard with all the distance and time differences. However, technology has allowed people to stay connected no matter how far apart. Many ways to make your family feel loved and appreciated, even when you're miles away. Here are a few tips to help make your holiday season bright.

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Set Up a Video Call

And make it a priority. Whether it's Skype, Facetime, Zoom, or another platform, scheduling a face-to-face chat will help everyone feel connected. Video calling is the best way to ensure everyone gets a chance to catch up and feel like they're in the same room. For parents, it's great to see how your kids have grown and changed. Seeing your family through video calls may seem sad since you're a thousand miles away, but it can also be incredibly special. Make sure that your schedules line up, especially if there are differences in time zones.

Get Creative with Your Gift Giving

If you can't be there in person to hug your loved ones, why not send one in the mail? Or better yet, have a care package delivered straight to their doorsteps. Fill it with their favorite snacks, some fun souvenirs from your travels, and a handwritten note letting them know how much you love and miss them. Suppose you are an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). In that case, you can have the package picked up from your place by opting for an option such as door-to-door cargo to the Philippines. This option lets you send the package directly to your family's doorstep in the Philippines without worrying about customs or other hassles.

Stay Connected on Social Media

While nothing can replace quality face time, staying active on social media is the next best thing. Whether you're sharing pictures, stories of your latest adventure, or simply liking and commenting on old family photos, let your loved ones know you're thinking of them often. Regularly post updates and photos on your social media accounts to give them a glimpse into your life. This is especially important when you're away from home during the holidays, as it helps maintain a connection with those back home. Your loved ones back home would like to see and know what it looks like abroad.

Be Present in the Moment

It is important to be present at the moment. When talking to your family during the holidays, put away your phone or laptop and focus on what they say. Listen carefully and make sure that everyone has a chance to share their stories and thoughts. Focus on being engaged and attentive, so your family knows you care about them and the conversation.

Ask questions and ensure you get a chance to hear all their updates. If problems or issues need to be discussed, take the time to address them. To be truly present, be mindful of the time. If you know your family has a certain amount of time to talk, try to stay within it. Don't forget to express how much you miss them and how proud you are of them, and remind them that you love them.

Mail Holiday Cards-The Old-Fashioned Way

There's something special about getting snail mail in today's digital world. So take the time to write out some holiday cheer, stuff it in an envelope, slap on a stamp, and drop it in the mailbox. Add in a postcard to make it extra special. You can even make it a tradition to send postcards from the places you've been to or have them delivered before you depart for your next destination. Your family will love knowing that no matter where you are, they'll always be in your thoughts and heart.

Plan for Next Year

Nothing dampens the holiday spirit quite like realizing you won't be able to be with your loved ones for yet another year. So, start planning for next year's celebrations instead of dwelling on what you can't do this year. That way, you'll have something fun to look forward to-and everyone will know exactly when they can start counting down the days until you're home again. You can also plan a nice surprise visit to your family if you have the time and funds. Even a short visit will be a special gift for your family. Make the most of it by getting to know each other again and savoring precious time together.

The holidays can be tough when you're working abroad-but they don't have to be! With creativity and forethought, you can ensure your family feels loved even when you're miles away. From video chats and care packages to social media posts and holiday cards. There are plenty of ways to stay connected this holiday season-no matter where you might be!

This is a contributed post.

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