The holidays are famous for bringing out the worst in people, especially those you’re related to. Here’s some advice I give my clients if they must spend time with their family, but dread it:

• Act your age. Be conscious of the temptation to act childish in your parent’s presence. Remind yourself continually (write it down): “I am an adult now, I am capable and responsible and I can handle whatever comes my way.”

• Limit your exposure to people who make you crazy. Make sure you spend time alone or with people you really like. If possible, stay at a hotel or with a relative you get along with. Have your own transportation and use it to get away for a peaceful drive on your own, even if it’s just to Burger King!

• You are not a fish, so do not take the bait. When relatives make snide or rude remarks, let them pass. You needn’t be “hooked”, as you may have been all those times in the past.

• Eat family meals at a nice restaurant whenever possible. That way: (1) no one can resent having to cook or clean up, (2) you get to eat what you want and (3) it’s easy to make a getaway!