Every year, at least one of our family members turns into a Grinch – mean, green, and irritable. And also every year we avoid this person, fearing that his dark cloud will not eat up your holiday spirit.

The thing is, the holidays also bring stress. We usually take for granted the person behind the fabulous dinner and family reunion. That was the same person who has been busy working in the kitchen making sure the chicken is roasted to perfection, cleaning the house all day, and preparing the rooms for the guests.

These are things you can do to avoid having your own Grinch in the family.

Help with ALL the chores. From marinating the chicken to making those fragile mango tarts, you should be in the kitchen when the cooking happens. You should also help with the tedious task of dishwashing and disinfecting the toilet for the guests. You can help with wrapping presents and completing the list of needed grocery. The worst part of all is the cleaning when the party is over. Be sure to be helpful during cleanup time. If you don’t, you might spend next year’s Christmas with only a glass of eggnog.

Review your guest list. Who are the people invited to the Christmas Party? Remember that it is not your party, it’s everyone’s party. Make sure friends of your family members are also invited. Can you imagine yourself doing all the housework and cooking only to find that you don’t know anyone in the guest list? It sucks. So to be fair, all family members should have their own share in the guest list.

Enjoy the holidays. Hey, the season’s all about being all too warm and happy. So why by the party pooper? A little leeway for everyone will be appreciated. Patience is a virtue so pack that short temper and keep it in the attic for the duration of the cold months.