Surviving the holiday party season

Now that we have made it through Thanksgiving, the real hustle and bustle of the holiday season starts. ‘Tis the season, to receive numerous invitations for all the holiday parties that will be thrown. The holidays are a busy time of the year. Inevitably, this will be the time when social anxiety can creep in and take over. Office parties, friend’s parties, family member’s parties, it can happen anywhere at any time. And dreading a social event, such as a party, is no way to enjoy the holidays. So here are a few tips to help you gracefully coast through the holiday party season.

Always bring a gift when you are invited to a friend or family member’s party. You never want to show up empty handed. While it doesn’t have to be anything expensive or extravagant, a small gift shows that you are appreciative. A bottle of wine, a box of chocolates, or even some homemade baked goods are all simple ideas. Not to mention, holding a gift, will help keep your hands occupied when you are walking into a room of people you may not know. You will have a task right when you enter the party, instead of standing at the doorway, unsure of what to do with yourself.

Ask the host or hostess if you can bring anything. When someone chooses to host a holiday party, sometimes we forget that the expenses for throwing such an event, can add up quite quickly. While there is a high chance your host will decline, always ask. Even if it’s something small like a beverage of some kind, or a bag of ice. It will help the host immensely.

Wear the appropriate attire. More times than not, the host will give some kind of hint as to how casual or how fancy their party will be. On the rare occasion your host is vague on these kind of details, standard party etiquette is to dress on the nicer side. However, don’t forget to keep it comfortable as well. You won’t want to be standing there all-night fidgeting with an annoying button or scratching at an itchy tag.

Avoid drinking too much. Many people will hold onto something in order to calm their nerves. Don’t nervously sip on cocktails all night, gulping your way into drunken embarrassment; simply because you don’t know anyone at the party. Switch to something non-alcoholic to avoid any kind of regret.

Include everyone in on the conversation. When you finally find someone at the party that you enjoy talking to, don’t be selfish and try to include that one guest glancing around the room nervously, (don’t forget, at one point that was you) they will be eternally grateful.

Have an “out” time. Having a set time to leave, will help calm your nerves as you walk into the party. When that time comes, don’t linger, say your goodbyes, and thank the host. Remember: don’t be the last person to leave the party.