by Mary Cantando, Founder of The Woman’s Advantage, Guest Contributor

The holidays can bring out both the best and the worst in all of us. When you’re stressed, you can either react in a way to make the situation worse, or you can stay calm and improve the situation.

Whether you’re on the job, at home or with friends, here are five tips to help you stay calm in stressful holiday situations.

Five Ways to Minimize Holiday Stress 

1. Convert a Difficulty to a Learning Opportunity. 

Instead of losing it, learn from it. Experience creates maturity.

2. Stay Positive.

Focusing on positive thoughts helps you stay calm under pressure.

3. Maintain a Can-Do Attitude. 

Every lock has a key, and every problem has a solution. Instead of stressing out, focus on a solution.

4. Cut Back on Caffeine. 

While you may consider that extra cup as a stress reliever, it can actually increase your stress and anxiety. So take a shot at cutting back during the holidays.

5. Be Grateful. 

There’s always something to be grateful for, and gratitude reduces stress hormones by 23%. So, find something wonderful in your life and focus on that.