It’s that time of year again when Halloween is over and fall is in full swing. We all look forward to the holiday season attending company soirees and family get togethers. Well, OK, maybe not all of us. With Thanksgiving and other holidays (like Christmas and Hanukkah) just ahead those that shy from such formalized functions with family and friends look to find their escape-clause. Think Vince Vaughn and Resse Witherspoon in Four Christmases. A long day of social festivities with family and friends isn’t for everyone. Ideally, you’d like to make your appearance then exit…but you know you can’t just buzz the tower and then quickly disappear like Casper. No, your obligation as a good standing family member is to provide face-to-face dialogue, story-telling, and shelve your OCD and listen attentively to Aunt Geraldine. As a remedy I have a short survival guide to this year’s Family & Friends holiday events:
- In moderation the perfect elixir can miraculously transform Aunt Lucille’s holiday party into a night at the Cosmo in Vegas. There’s a reason why the alcohol station occupies the main focus in most holiday parties.
- Hovering around the buffet table seems to create a comfort zone. Casual conversation is required as the focus is always on the deviled egg or potato skin you are consuming.
- Hotel Accommodations: Inevitably someone will ask you to stay the night at their home, especially if you are coming in from out of town. Pre-planning Tip #1: Always reserve a room at the local hotel.
- LYFT or UBER. Once you hit the party bar you know fam and friends won’t let you drive anywhere. I call it the “Bar Trap”. Ensure LYFT or any rideshare service is available in the city/town you’re in, or YOU’RE TRAPPED!
- Bring a friend. This is a classic tried and proven party maneuver. A lover, friend or business colleague will do just fine. This ensures that unwanted conversations are kept short and keeps everyone on their best behavior.
If you’re like me, when the party winds down and you’ve said your goodbyes, as you walk out the front door you feel good knowing that everyone in that party cares about you, and that you genuinely care for them. My night traditionally ends with, “I’m glad I attended, and it was great seeing everyone.” That warmth will continue through your journey back to your hotel oasis.