As we move toward the holidays we move toward the most difficult time of the year for many people. We can best help them by being patient with them – and with ourselves. Many of us enter the holidays hoping to recreate failed holiday experiences of the past and then have them work out favorably today. Such expectations are unrealistic and only increase the stress present at the most stress filled time of the year. If you struggle with the holidays, try to just let them unfold as they will. Don’t over commit yourself, and take one day at a time. If you become overwhelmed, take a break. Rome wasn’t built in a day.