7Live invited us in to talk to Lizzie Bermudez about how to handle the holidays with a smile! (A real one!) In this broadcast–and with even more in our post below–we offer tips on how to have a great holiday, no matter what crops up! Happy Holidays!
Family and Friends–How to keep your cool with the people who MOST know how to push your buttons!
Q: How do you deal with in-laws?
A: To avoid reverting to your inner teenager, you can take the high road. After all they did produce the man/woman you married. And even if they represent the one or two traits in your spouse that drive you most crazy, find a non-family related topic they love (tv show? hobby?) to talk about. Unless the topic they love is “moving in with you”–in which case, head for the hills!
Q: What if there’s that one person (family member) you can’t stand, what’s the best way to handle them for a few hours?
A: Key phrases like “I’m sure you’re right” and “is that so?” will help you stay away from the issues that drive you crazy. That, plus “oh, I’ve got to check on the kids/the food/the dishes/the trash,” can keep you politely away from the offending person.
Q: How can you get along with exes during the holidays?
A: If you must see an ex you are out of love with, and/or simply can’t understand how you got together in the first place. Keep it “lite” and see above! If s/he’s now dating your sibling, that’s another story!
Q: Is this the time to make amends with friends or family members you’ve been on the outs with? Is it okay to make the first move? Will they be more forgiving?
A: It’s certainly a good excuse to reach out. Stay focused on the outcome, try not to pick old wounds, and use those infamous “I” statements. “Can we find a way to get back to how we were before?”; Remind them of what you love about each other. And if there’s an issue that must be resolved, consider setting a date in a neutral place to work it out. Whatever you do–don’t start a cat fight in the middle of the Christmas feast!
Holiday Time management
Q: What’s the best way to share your time with family during Christmas (In-laws, friends, your own family) and how do you decline an invitation to a party or gathering without offending the host?
You don’t want to make yourself crazy, but you don’t want to make any enemies either–here’s how to fit it all in, or get out of the things you just can’t manage. The holidays are a bonanza of get-togethers. Demonstrate your desire to see everyone, but don’t feel like you have to cram it all in before a certain date. You may find that other are relieved at this approach too–and as for the party–more eggnog for those that can come!
Gifts
Q: How should you handle getting a tacky gift?
A: Politely!
Q: Is it okay to re-gift?
If you’re careful, yes–but it can backfire (eg what if they gave it to you 3 years ago and you forgot!?)
Q: What if you can’t afford to give nice gifts this Christmas, what’s the best way to let people know it’s a tough time. What are some inexpensive gift ideas?
A: Honesty is the best policy–or agree not to do gifts this year. If you want to express yourself try baking, writing a poem, a personal work of art are all ways to show you care and that you’ve put time, if not money into the gift.
