How to Make the Most of Holiday Gatherings

Thanksgiving and the winter holidays approaching rapidly, which means that the inevitable awkward dinner conversations and pervasive lack of privacy will be making an appearance. While I thoroughly enjoy my family’s holiday celebrations, I am also an introvert and at times find it difficult to find time to recharge during the holiday season. Regardless of whether you also enjoy your family holiday gatherings, or if you dread them with every fiber of your being, taking these three steps will help you to restore your energy and remain levelheaded.

Spend some time alone.

When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed amidst the hubbub of holiday gatherings, it can be helpful to take some time to yourself. Although it might be difficult to leave the table in the middle of a family meal for a prolonged period of time, excusing yourself for a bathroom break, or to get more food in the kitchen, could be great opportunities for you to have a moment to think in silence. It can also be helpful to carve out some time before your holiday gatherings begin to listen to music, journal, or meditate.

 

Avoid contentious topics and know your boundaries.

At holiday gatherings, it is always a smart idea to focus the conversation on topics that will not create an argument or an uncomfortable moment politics are almost always a no-go). If you see the conversation is heading in the wrong direction, do yourself and everyone else present a favor by changing the subject! Furthermore, make sure you are aware of what topics are off limits for conversation at holiday gatherings, and make sure that if someone brings these subjects up, you respectfully inform them that you will not be discussing those matters.

 

When conversation grows stagnant, suggest a group activity!

If the conversation is heading toward murky waters or is becoming dull, suggest that the group participate in a shared activity. A board game that requires collaboration or a good old fashioned outdoor sports match will generate an activity based conversation (which is less likely to include contentious topics), and allows the members of the group to work together toward a shared goal (thus supporting group cohesion).