10 Ways to Have a Happy Family Holiday

"As we prepare for visits with loved ones this holiday season, you may be filled with excitement at being reunited with family you haven’t seen in a while. Many of you may also be feeling anxiety: perhaps you have rocky relationships with certain family members or you are simply stressed about hosting relatives over the holidays. For some of you, the holidays may be filled with both joyous and nervous anticipation.

It is important to remember that each family member carries something that is unique and relevant to the whole. As a result, each family member’s expectations may influence his or her perceptions. Thus, with a pinch of gratitude, a dash of empathy, and a heaping helping of compassion, you will find that home is where the heart is.

Here are some tips that can help your holiday experience reuniting with family members be a happy one.

1. Be tolerant and flexible in how you perceive your family members. Remember the perfect family does not exist…even on TV.
2. Take a time-out. Whether you are visiting a relative’s home for the holidays or you are entertaining, remember to take time out for yourself. If you are arriving at someone’s home, take 30 minutes before engaging socially, by meditating, having a warm bath, drinking a hot cup of tea, or just closing your eyes for a few minutes. If you are tired, you feel more fragile. And, tired and fragile people often make mistakes, get cranky, and become magnets for trouble. If you are the hostess, the same rules apply. Take time out for yourself before guests arrive, so that you can manage your stress and have the energy necessary for socializing.
3. Be tolerant. Give your relatives the benefit of the doubt. Remember, when families come together, they often have unrealistic goals for one another and may try to recreate childhood fantasies. This can cause regressive and childish behavior. So step back, breath-in and give him or her the benefit of the doubt.
4. Make it easy on yourself. Less time in the kitchen affords you more time to feel the love that only family get-togethers can bring. Without any extra financial expenditure, you can buy foods that are pre-made or found on a shelf. Many stores now offer complete holiday meals, from the appetizers to the main course to dessert. Make only what you enjoy, and simply purchase the rest.

In the end, it is your time together that counts. Go easy on yourself – and on your guests – and enjoy your family time this holiday season."

*Family time can always be stressful for everyone around the holidays. We are all different from each other and our mindsets can potentially clash. We've all been there and I know that some family members drive me bonkers! It's important to remember that we may not see them much and to try and appreciate the time we have with them. Try to take everything with a grain of salt and take it easy on yourself. Do you have a difficult time with some family members around the holidays? What do you do to try and stay happy?*

#FamilyTime #Holidays #Thanksgiving #Christmas

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