Surviving Awkward Holiday Parties
So you’re going to an awkward holiday party…
…well that sucks. But it doesn’t have to. Whether it is a gathering with family that involves off-handed insults and slightly racist comments from your uncle, or a work party that you are being dragged to, there are ways to make it better. Surviving awkward holiday gatherings is a fine art. Here are a few tips that can help.
- Limit your time there. Make travel plans, or reservations somewhere else. Anything that gives you an excuse to leave so you aren’t stuck lingering forever.
- Plan safe topics. Don’t want to discuss why you still haven’t done your proposal yet? Plan an easy transition into a different topic. How about holiday recipes? Discuss creative New Year’s resolutions. Anything that won’t get your blood boiling.
- Bring a friend. There is no better safety net then someone who has your back. It saves your from awkward silence or standing alone in the corner. While introducing them you can learn that one person’s name you keep forgetting. A good friend will even help you get out of a conversation when cornered by that smelly old guy.
- Count to ten. Can’t think of anything nice to say? Hear your voice getting louder? Take a moment, count to ten, and try again.
- Don’t take the bait. This is for those of us with mothers who just love to give you back handed compliments. Don’t give into it. Don’t start the argument about why you cut your hair that way. Twist everything into a compliment, smile, and say thank you. It will throw them off guard and stop the argument before it begins.
- Get injured. If all else fails, getting physically hurt will be the best excuse not to go. No one can deny it. Don’t fake it. Standing in the cold room without a sweatshirt for 30 minutes and you’ll get pneumonia. Accidentally drop a knife on your foot and go to the ER instead. These aren't great options, but for the truly painful parties, actual physical pain will get you out of it every time.
By: GSA Graduate Gazette Team