Oh, there’s no place like home for the holidays. It’s a lovely Christmas song, but for many of us it’s anything but true. Going home for the holidays can make your holiday stressful, tense, and uncomfortable moments – not exactly how you want to spend Christmas. So, check out these nine tips that help you avoid conflict even if you spend Christmas at home. 

Leave politics at the door 

Research shows that when opposing political party members attend holiday dinners, they are 30 to 50 minutes shorter than if everyone was a member of the same party. So, avoid political discourse.

Draw political boundaries

Even if you decide to leave politics at the door, others may be keen to argue or debate. But whatever you do, don’t bite the bate. Let them know kindly and firmly, that although you know just how important the topic is, you’d rather not discuss it so that everyone can have a good time. 

Eat and be merry without talking about diets

Your family may be a mix of vegans, carnivores, gluten-free, grain-free and everything in between. People usually feel pretty strongly about their diets, but you can navigate this by offering to bring dishes that support your dietary needs. Remember, this one meal doesn’t have to represent your beliefs and preferences about food. 

Talk about your amazing single life

All the single ladies usually have to put up with a lot of queries and concerns. Usualy, these comments come with the best of intentions, but it’s still hurtful when people assume that since you’re single, you’re not having any fun. Be prepared to share all the amazing things you’ve done that year. 

Be fashionably late

This might sound rude, but if drama and conflict are inevitable, just limit the amount of time you spend with everyone. It protects your emotional wellbeing, and also gives you a chance to celebrate Christmas in a way that supports you.