If the thought of putting on a Thanksgiving spread for your family makes your heart palpitate, you’re not alone. A few years ago, iVillage.com conducted a survey where the majority of respondents admitted they’re not thrilled about the holiday.

If you might want to do things a little differently, here are a few practical tips on how to stress less at Thanksgiving and keep your sanity intact.

Lower your expectations

That Norman Rockwell scene in your head about what you think Thanksgiving should be? Shut it down. It’s never what you envision and you know it, yet you’re disappointed when it’s reaffirmed every year with your messy family dynamics. Why not just accept that you’ll be OK with that? Give thanks for what is, not what should be.

Don’t try and do it all

Do you really need a turkey, 3 kinds of potatoes, 7 side dishes and an assortment of pies? Do you have the time or energy to do all that? Simplify. You can still make a nice meal without going overboard and you’ll have more time to spend with your guests vs. racing around the kitchen hating your life.

Start new traditions

Just because your family has done something one way for years, doesn’t mean you have to continue doing it that way, especially if it makes you miserable. Go out to eat. Volunteer. Change it up.

Start the day right

Before everything gets too out of hand, take some time for you. Sit quietly and meditate upon awakening. Get your workout crossed off your list. Take part in a local walk/run event to set a healthy tone for the day.

Just let it go

People are who they are: flawed human beings with their own expectations, coping mechanisms and issues. You can choose to get sucked into their drama or you can save yourself some grief and just let it go. Be the bigger person, the adult. Don’t engage in drama. No one wins. You’ll be glad you did.

Do you have any suggestions on how to stress less at Thanksgiving? Let me know in the comments!