The holidays are inevitably filled with a grand range of emotions. Along with all the joy can come a bit of holiday tension. It is easy to get all worked up over something that is said, or stressed out attempting to make everything perfect. Sometimes it's hard to simply take a deep breath and remember what this time of year is all about. The holidays only happen once a year, don't waste the day stressing out over something silly!
This holiday, make every effort you can to keep the positivity flowing. The best way to avoid the negative feelings associated with the tension? Avoid the situation in the first place, of course! Whether you're a guest in someone else's home, or your running the show this year, here are some tips to help get you through the holiday and avoid situations that may cause conflict.
Entertaining this Holiday? Take a look at Tips to Make Your Bathroom Holiday Friendly and Prepping the Exterior of Your Home For the Holidays.
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As a Guest
1. Bring a gift
Always show up to a holiday dinner bearing gifts. Avoid bringing traditional things like pumpkin pie or wine. Chances are they'll already have all they need. Try something original like bringing a game that everyone can play together.
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2. Ask for recipes/take home leftovers if they're offered
Remember, flattery will get you everywhere. Go one step further than merely complimenting the chef, ask for the recipes for your favorite dish. This really proves that you loved the meal. Always accept leftovers if they are offered to you. Saying no to taking food home may seem rude.
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3. Hang out with the kids
If things begin getting tense, spend time with the kids. They're usually pretty carefree on the holidays. Plus their parents are sure to appreciate the help.
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4. Always offer a helping hand
Remember these words, "How can I help?" "Where do you need me?". Let your host know that you're up for helping out in anyway possible, and that no task is too big or too small.
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5. Avoid controversial topics
Maybe your family loves discussing politics and it serves as something you all can bond over. If this doesn't describe your family (and most likely it doesn't) avoid controversial topics like politics and religion. No need to get everyone all riled up over dinner.
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7. Send thank you cards
The entire purpose of the holiday season is to spread joy and give thanks! Be sure to send your host a thank you card. It's an older tradition, that most people still cherish. If you feel stodgy sending a traditional thank you card, think of a creative way to send your appreciation.
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As a Host
1. Ask for. . .neigh, demand help
Hosting a party is a lot of work. Don't try and handle it all yourself. Whether you divvy out some of the dishes to your invitees, or make lists of responsibilities for your children, ask for help.
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2. Assign tasks ahead of time
No one likes being suddenly thrown into work when they thought they'd be able to kick back and relax all day. Let your kids and husband know ahead of time what you expect them to help you with. Try and find ways to make it seem like less of a chore.
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3. Take charge of the conversation
As host, part of your responsibility is to ensure that everyone is comfortable and happy. Try and steer the conversation the way that you see fit. If you notice someone's body language saying, 'i don't want to answer these questions', help them change the subject.
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4. Be inclusive
Don't let the same people dominate the conversation all night long. While the chatty relatives can be entertaining, help everyone to feel as though their individual presence is appreciated. Ensure that no one feels left out of the conversation, while avoiding putting anyone on the spot.
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5. Cherish your traditions, but be flexible
Holiday traditions are part of what makes this time of year so special to us all. Continue with your yearly traditions, but don't obsess over recreating them perfectly. Be able to enjoy whatever surprises come your way this holiday!
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6. Take advice or cooking tips with grace
Everyone wants to think they've got hosting down to a science. If your mother wants to tell you why the way she prepares the turkey is superior to yours, take her advice gracefully. Thank her for the tips with a genuine smile.
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7. Don't try and force them to be holiday obsessed too
Don't try and force your husband and kids to be as excited about hosting as you are. If you love every step of planning this holiday, that is part of what makes you who you are. Your family doesn't have to be equally obsessed with all the details as you are. They only need to be supportive and appreciative.
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