Ep. 130 - When “Ho-Ho-Ho” Feels More Like “No-No-No!”: 12 Tips for Surviving the Holidays

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, are you feeling more dread than joy? In this episode, psychologist Traci Stein shares 12 easy, actionable tips to help you better navigate holiday drama, head off chaos and reclaim calm.Key moments in this episode:Tip 1: Holidays do not suddenly repair relationships — [14:55]Tip 2: Plan for how YOU want to be — [15:56]Tip 3: Prepare for chaos makers — [18:19]Tip 4: Remember: you don’t have to live with people you don’t live with — [21:54]Tip 5: Have an exit plan — [22:35]Tip 6: Decide your go/no-go behaviors and boundaries — [23:57]Tip 7: If you choose to engage, commit emotionally and mentally — [28:32]Tip 8: Have a support system — [29:27]Tip 9: Give yourself permission to opt out — [30:46]Tip 10: Agree to disagree — [32:45]Tip 11: Dysfunctional Family Bingo (use humor) — [34:12]Tip 12: Find common ground –[37:15]For more on Traci Stein and “Unpacking Possibility,” visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/Follow Traci on social media: Facebook.com/DrTStein and on Instagram: @DrTraciStein and YouTube: @TraciSteinPhD