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• Pick off-peak times to travel and celebrate. In my book, you're just plain nuts if you plan to travel over the weekend before a big holiday like Christmas. Not only is it typically more expensive, but you're setting yourself up for delays and additional stress you don't need.

• Less is more. Just because they're your family doesn't mean they get to stay with you for two weeks, and vice versa. Come together with your family to decide on a set number of days you're willing to tolerate each other.

• Be assertive. Who hasn't had a mother or mother-in-law trying to tell you what to do in your own home? Everyone needs respect, and that includes you, regardless of whether you're the one staying with relatives or if relatives are crashing at your place.

• Pick your battles. Of course, there are some core areas where you should hold your ground, such as matters concerning health or basic family values. However, there are some areas, like how the turkey should be basted, that you can compromise on for the sake of everyone's sanity. Plus, it shows your relatives that you respect them.

• Work our disagreements ahead of time. No one wants to see a holiday ham being thrown at someone's head, so try to resolve any latent issues either over the phone or in person before the family gathers together.

• Recognize the value in all your family relationships. Yes, your relatives may live 500 miles away, but being attentive to all your relatives, at least somewhat, will ease any hurt and resentment when you get together as a family. Just think – if you actually know your family, you won't have to plaster on a fake smile and you can relax and enjoy your time together.

With these tips, I hope your holiday gathering is a beautiful time you look forward to and cherish this festive season.