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How to avoid overused holiday tropes in your writing

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and creativity. But it can also be a time of clichés, stereotypes, and predictability. If you are a writer who wants to write a holiday-themed story, you might be tempted to use some of the common tropes that have been done to death by countless books, movies, and TV shows. But how can you avoid these overused holiday tropes and make your story stand out from the crowd? Here are some tips to help you:

1. Don't rely on the magic of Christmas (or any other holiday)

One of the most overused holiday tropes is the idea that the magic of Christmas (or any other holiday) can solve any problem, heal any wound, or make any dream come true. This trope is often used as a lazy way to wrap up a story without any real conflict, character development, or logical explanation. It can also make your story seem unrealistic, cheesy, or boring.

Instead of relying on the magic of Christmas, try to create a story that is grounded in reality, has believable characters, and has a satisfying resolution that is earned by the actions and choices of your protagonists. You can still have some elements of magic or fantasy in your story, but make sure they are consistent with the rules and tone of your world, and that they don't overshadow the human drama and emotion of your story.

2. Don't make your characters fall in love at first sight (or hate at first sight)

Another overused holiday trope is the idea that your characters can fall in love at first sight (or hate at first sight) and have a whirlwind romance (or rivalry) that culminates in a happy ending (or a dramatic showdown) by the end of the story. This trope is often used as a shortcut to create instant chemistry, conflict, or tension between your characters, without having to develop their personalities, backgrounds, or motivations.

Instead of making your characters fall in love at first sight, try to create a story that shows how your characters gradually get to know each other, overcome their differences, and develop a genuine connection. You can still have some sparks, attraction, or friction between your characters, but make sure they are based on more than just physical appearance, clichéd dialogue, or contrived situations.

3. Don't use the same old settings, themes, and symbols

Another overused holiday trope is the idea that your story has to take place in a certain setting, have a certain theme, or use a certain symbol that is associated with the holiday. For example, a Christmas story might have to take place in a snowy town, have a theme of family or forgiveness, or use a symbol of a tree or a star. This trope is often used as a way to create a festive atmosphere, convey a message, or evoke a mood, without having to be original, creative, or diverse.

Instead of using the same old settings, themes, and symbols, try to create a story that explores a different aspect, perspective, or culture of the holiday. You can still have some references, influences, or inspirations from the traditional holiday elements, but make sure they are not the main focus, the only option, or the obvious choice of your story.
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