With Thanksgiving and family/friends gatherings coming next week, I thought I’d repost something helpful PeopleKeys has put out there:
The holiday season can be a time of joy—but it’s also notorious for adding stress to our lives. According to the American Psychological Association, 38% of people report an increase in stress during the holidays, between financial pressures, time constraints, and the hype of holiday commercialism.
DISC offers a unique lens to approach this busy season by identifying how different personality styles can manage stress and thrive during social gatherings. Developed from William Marston's DISC theory, this system categorizes behavior into four primary traits: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Compliance.
Here are some Thanksgiving tips tailored to each DISC style.
1. Tip for D Style. Your natural leadership skills make it tempting to take control of the kitchen—whether that’s cooking everything yourself or managing everyone else’s contributions. You’re the one who wants to set the menu, choose the desserts, and assign tasks to family members.
This year, try stepping back and allowing others to play a larger role. Focus on preparing just one simple dish instead of managing the entire meal. Take the opportunity to relax—curl up on the couch to watch the game or take a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Letting go of some control can help you truly enjoy the holiday.
2. Tip for I Style. As the social butterfly of your circle, you thrive on connecting with people. Whether it’s sending out holiday invitations or curating the perfect guest list, you excel at bringing people together.
However, your excitement can sometimes lead to overlooking key details. Avoid last-minute stress by creating a plan in advance like a grocery list or a schedule for the day. And remember to take a break from social media during the holiday. Spending quality, undistracted time with loved ones will leave you feeling recharged.
3. Tip for S Style. Known for your dependability, you’re often the go-to person for those who need support. Whether it’s running out to replace a burnt pie or peeling extra potatoes at the last minute, you’re always ready to help.
This Thanksgiving, prioritize self-care. It’s okay to say no to extra tasks or step away from being everyone’s problem-solver. By setting boundaries and making time for yourself you can avoid burnout.
4. Tip for C Style. Your attention to detail makes you the ideal person to organize holiday logistics from coordinating who’s bringing each dish to finding the best grocery deals. You’re great at crunching numbers and ensuring everything is just right.
But remember: not everything will go according to plan—and that’s okay. Try to embrace the unexpected and focus on enjoying the moment. Sometimes the best memories come from a little chaos!
With these DISC-inspired tips, you can navigate Thanksgiving and the rest of the holiday season with less stress and more joy.
