It’s that time of year again – the holidays are upon us! For many of us, this means spending quality time with our loved ones, including our dear old families. While it’s always nice to be surrounded by family, let’s be real – sometimes they can drive us up the wall!

Here are a few tips on how to tolerate your family during the holidays:

Take a deep breath and remember that this time is temporary. It may seem like an eternity when your crazy aunt is regaling you with the same old stories for the hundredth time, but before you know it, the holidays will be over and you can go back to your normal routine.

Try to have a sense of humor about it. Yes, your siblings may be driving you crazy with their constant bickering, but instead of getting frustrated, try to find the humor in the situation. After all, laughter is the best medicine!

Set boundaries. It’s okay to let your family know that you need some alone time or space to recharge. It’s also okay to politely decline invitations to events or gatherings that you don’t feel up to attending. Taking care of yourself is just as important as spending time with your loved ones.

Practice mindfulness. When things start to get overwhelming, try to focus on the present moment and let go of any negative thoughts or feelings. This can help you stay grounded and avoid getting caught up in the chaos.

Don’t take things personally. Your family members may say or do things that hurt your feelings, but it’s important to remember that their behavior is not necessarily a reflection of you. Instead of getting defensive, try to understand where they are coming from and have empathy for their perspective.

Remind yourself of the good times. Despite any challenges or conflicts that may arise, the holidays are also a time for creating special memories and traditions with your family. So, even when things get tough, try to focus on the positives and cherish the moments you have together.

Tolerating your family during the holidays can be a challenge, but with a little patience, humor, and self-care, you can make it through and enjoy the season. And remember, if all else fails, just remember this old joke: Why was the turkey the busiest at Thanksgiving? Because it was a “fowl” playing all the “poultry” in motion! Happy holidays!