During these seasonal holidays, you probably attend or host social events whose purpose is to share friendship and kinship and good will.

Nevertheless, some guests bring up inappropriate topics and issues. Our world is well-sprinkled with cranks, ideologues, proselytizers, and cynics who use any gathering to push their positions and your hot buttons.

Tip: Say "I'd rather not talk about that topic," or "I don't want to argue. I'm here to have a pleasant time with friends." Say this with civility, not reprimand. If the person persists, step away.

Just as you'd avoid toxic fumes, you can give yourself permission to move away from toxic people in any social situation.

Thank you for subscribing and reading this tip!

Until next week's tip,

Loren