Kiddipedia
Family gatherings during the holidays can be a bit like navigating a minefield, especially when you’re dealing with different personalities, past tensions, or the general stress that seems to come with the season. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that a little preparation—and a lot of patience—can make all the difference. It’s all about setting the right expectations and preparing yourself mentally for the range of emotions and situations that might arise.
I’ve learned to set realistic expectations, both for myself and for others. We often build up these gatherings in our minds, imagining that everything will be picture-perfect, but the reality is that life isn’t a Hallmark movie. There will be moments of joy, yes, but there may also be moments of awkwardness, tension, or even conflict. By accepting that not every moment will be perfect, I find it easier to roll with whatever comes up. It’s a bit like real estate—no transaction is ever without its hiccups, and the same goes for family dynamics.
One thing I focus on is approaching any potential tension with empathy. I remind myself that everyone at the table is likely dealing with their own set of pressures, especially during the holidays when emotions tend to run high. Whether it’s the stress of hosting, the pressure to find the perfect gift, or just the general fatigue of the season, everyone has their own burdens. By keeping this in mind, I’m able to approach conversations and interactions with a bit more understanding. If someone seems on edge or if a conversation starts to take a negative turn, I try to listen actively and acknowledge their feelings without necessarily agreeing with them. Sometimes, all it takes to defuse a situation is for the other person to feel heard.
If things do start to get heated, I’ve found that taking a deep breath and staying calm can be incredibly effective. It’s easy to get swept up in the emotions of the moment, but I try to be the steadying force in the room. Whether it’s by changing the subject to something more light-hearted or simply stepping away for a moment to gather my thoughts, maintaining my composure can help prevent a small issue from escalating into something bigger.
Another strategy that’s worked wonders for me is having a few light-hearted topics or activities ready to go. Whether it’s pulling out a board game, suggesting a holiday movie, or reminiscing about good memories from past holidays, these distractions can work wonders in shifting the focus away from any potential conflict. It’s amazing how a shared laugh or a nostalgic story can completely change the energy in the room.
I’ve found that keeping the atmosphere warm and inviting usually helps everyone relax and enjoy the time together more. It’s not about forcing everyone to be on their best behavior but rather creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves. And at the end of the day, that’s really what the holidays are about—spending quality time with the people you care about, imperfections and all.
Samantha Odo
Real Estate Sales Representative & Montreal Division Manager
Education: BS in Applied Psychology at Acadia University
Company website: https://precondo.ca/
Samantha Odo is a seasoned professional in the real estate industry, currently serving as the Real Estate Sales Representative and Montreal Division Manager at Precondo. Her tenure of over 6 years has been marked by her exceptional business acumen and marketing strategies, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and success.
In addition to her remarkable achievements in real estate, Samantha has also demonstrated extensive expertise in working with interior designers. Her collaborative efforts with these professionals have resulted in beautifully designed and highly marketable properties, further enhancing her reputation in the industry. This unique aspect of her work not only highlights her versatility but also her commitment to delivering the best to her clients.
