8 steps to an easier ‘Big Day’

✿ Draw up a timetable and do what you can in advance.

✿ Give everyone specific tasks and ‘do-by’ times. If you’re a guest, lending a hand can be calming for you and the host.

✿ If you’re hosting, keep a family quiz or a selection of easy-to-organise games handy.

✿ If you’d rather sit quietly than join in, say so – but cheerfully!

✿ If you’ll be alone for Christmas, make the effort to treat yourself, or consider attending a local charity lunch.

✿ Don’t drink too much. (Or offer more alcohol to people who’ve clearly had enough!)

✿ If you or someone else feels stressed, practise a relaxation technique, chat to someone who understands, take a walk, read, watch TV, find some personal space, have a nap or leave your host’s event early (with thanks and a smile, of course).

✿ Don’t believe all the ‘magical Christmases’ you see and read about on social media.