Leadership is not just a position at work; it is taking responsibility at home, ringing in the holiday with as much joy, and as little stress, as possible.

This time of year can bring great joy, but it can also mean moments of frustration, anger and irritation at friends and family. Every year there is an unrealized expectation that the mere appearance of the holidays also brings with it a sudden magical transformation of the challenging situations and people in our lives. So how do we as leaders find a healthy balance? Consider these tips:
 

1. Give something that makes a difference. Nothing puts things into perspective more than giving in a way that feeds a family for a week, or provides coats to children who have none. You are doing it for them, but it will provide you with untold benefits emotionally.
2. Communicate expectations. At home, at the office, in community endeavors... take the initiative to open dialogue around what is expected and why. And set boundaries. Will it hurt? Probably. Will it be pleasant? Probably not. But is unmet expectations that result in anger and frustration a better course of action?
3. Don't sweat the small stuff, truly! Make up your mind in advance to let a lot of that 'stuff' go. Who really cares if Cousin Charlie has to bring another fruitcake, and insists on taking over the easy chair for the day? Smile, say thank you, and move on to something important.
4. Focus on the difference between inconveniences and problems. Problems are real. Inconveniences may be unpleasant, but not a crisis. Yet too often we treat them as such and bring undue stress. Focus on the positive aspects of even negative situations.
5. Take 5 with your 'favorite things.' Take just 5 minutes to go for a walk in the snow (or on the beach); turn out the lights and watch the tree flicker. Listen to your favorite holiday song as many times as you want. Try to have activities that encourage healthy behavior, even if it is just for 5 minutes.
6. Breathe. Accept people for who they are and who they are not. Avoid trying to make someone behave the way you want them to. Just take a deep breath, bite your tongue, and focus on something more positive and worthwhile.

For more thoughts on ways to thrive as a leader, check out 'A Healthy Leader'