🎁 Be aware that holidays trigger different emotions for different people.
⚡ Anticipate heightened emotions—stay calm, patient and supportive.
🌍 Respect that not everyone celebrates the same holidays.
❤ Know that acts of kindness and gratitude produce positive emotions and reduce stress.
🎯 Keep people focused on the purpose of gatherings.
🔍 Stay curious and ask questions if tension arises; direct conversations toward issues, not people.
💭 Be reflective about what you’re feeling and why.
👁 Practice self-awareness about your role in any conflicts that may arise.
🛡 Protect your mental and physical wellbeing; set and maintain personal boundaries.
💲 Avoid pressuring others to spend money on gifts or events.

Summary

This document provides 10 tips for navigating potentially challenging moments during the holiday season. These tips can help you create more positive interactions and minimize conflict.

If you or your team need support navigating conflict at work, the Office of the University Ombudsperson is here to help: Universityombudsperson@illinoistech.edu.