The holidays are a wonderful time for socializing, good food, and... family drama. We all have that one uncle who thinks conspiracy theories are a great conversation starter, that aunt who asks why you don't have kids yet (and you're only 25), or that cousin who Instagrams everything before you even get to dessert. Yes, family gatherings can be wonderful, but they can also test your patience.
How to avoid being ruined by family weirdos holiday idyll? Don't worry – here are six tricks to help you survive without desperately searching for a bathroom exit or suddenly "forgetting" where you live.
1. The “Everything is under control” strategy
Become the general of your holiday battlefield. Divide up the tasks: Uncle carves the turkey, Aunt sets the plates, the kids take care of the decorations. No one will have time for awkward comments if they’re busy “saving the world.” If anyone protests, say it’s an “old family tradition.” No one will question the tradition—it’s almost sacrilegious.
2. Set an invisible “red line” for taboo topics
Do you really want your uncle to start lecturing you about global warming while you’re eating dessert? No? Set a clear boundary for topics that are “forbidden” at the holiday lunch. You could even come up with a funny sign that says: “Politics and conspiracy theories – in the living room around the corner!” With a smile, of course. Irony is your best friend.
3. Choose a safe zone for a break
When you feel your nerves dancing Swan Lake, retreat to your safe zone. It could be your balcony, your kitchen, or even your garage (if it's really bad). Take a deep breath and tell yourself, "It's just the holidays. This isn't 'Survivor.'" If you have a friend on your emergency hotline, call them and send them a quick "SOS." They already know what to do.
4. Compliments save lives
Instead of getting into an argument with your aunt who thinks your career isn't "the right job," compliment her on her dessert. Compliments are like little fire extinguishers for family fires. Redirect your attention to something positive and sincere—who doesn't love a compliment?
5. Master the art of ignoring
If your uncle starts a third monologue about his golden youth or new miracle vitamins, turn off the sound in your mind. Nod, smile, and mentally plan a list of shows to watch after the holidays. If necessary, even make a plan for a world tour - anything is better than listening to another hour of fishing from '82.
6. Prepare “rescue phrases”
When you sense a potential mini-crisis question coming up (“Have you found a boyfriend yet?”), have some detour phrases ready. “More on that later, but for now, try this amazing cabbage!” or, “Oh, I haven’t told you about my new theory about Christmas elves yet!” Confused look? Perfect! The goal is to divert attention before anyone realizes what happened.
The holidays are not about perfection, they're about surviving with a little humor. If all else fails, remember: Family dramas are temporary, but memories are eternal.And if you're really desperate, here's one more solution - an extra portion of dessert and a glass of wine. Happy holidays!
