Getting together with friends, coworkers and family can be an enjoyable way to celebrate the holidays; that is unless there is someone in the group that has a history of creating drama. At nearly every party you will find that one person who irks you. It could be a bossy relative or that annoying coworker or that one person who just cannot refrain from criticizing you. Here are some tips for getting through the holidays without having to make Xanax your daily supplement:
Tactfully express your wishes and desires to others. If you don't want to spend the day watching football, say so; then figure out what you will do instead. Expecting others to change their plans for you isn’t realistic, but you can choose to do something that makes you happy.
Be tolerant and respectful. When you are with people you don't particularly like remember to avoid them when necessary and to hold your tongue always. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect regardless of how they have slighted you in the past. But that doesn’t mean you have to like them or to spend time with them. Just be respectful.
Offer your opinion only when asked for it. We may believe we are being helpful, but when under stress - even positive stress - it is easy for others to take our helpful hints as criticism. Keep the conversation light and upbeat. Really, people will get along just fine without your input.
Communicate your expectations. If you want the men to clean up after dinner make sure you let them know ahead of time. People don't like to feel ambushed, and a little pre-planning can go a long way.
Check all negativity at the door. Refrain from gossip, negative comments, punishing the kids for small infractions, or any other form of negativity. Is seems so simple, but making a conscious effort to remain positive and upbeat is the key to having a positive and upbeat experience.
Remember, this is a time to create happy family memories. It isn't the time to rehash unresolved differences or to open old wounds. It is just one meal, one day, one weekend don't ruin it by waking dead memories. If others around you begin to behave unpleasantly, quietly remove yourself from the room until everything calms down. Defending yourself, correcting others or arguing will only fuel the negativity. You are in charge of your experience. Make it a great one.
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