06 Dec Surviving the Holidays: Taking Control of Ourselves Part 1

It’s that time of year again! Time to take a deep breath and face the holidays head on.  For some, the holidays are filled with joy and companionship, while for others it means surviving their family.  Whether it is having to deal with critical parents, an annoying uncle, feuding siblings or any other dysfunction, you can still come out of the holidays with a over all good experience.

The first step is changing your thinking about your family get together.  Because after all we only have control over ourselves.  This is exactly my point.  We are not going to change any ones crazy ways or opinions during a single family dinner.  However, we do have control over how we react and deal with our not so enjoyable family members.  First we need to change our expectations.  Instead of hoping that things will change this year, switch to expecting that 1 or 2 forgettable situations or conversation might happen.   This way you won’t be surprised or have an overwhelming reaction when taboo topics, uninvited personal questions, or disagreements come up.  You can just roll with it, keeping your reactions and replies light, knowing that you most likely cannot change any one in that moment and continue with your good time.