The year is winding down and the holidays are upon us again, already. This time of year always brings about a range of emotions for most and serious dread for some. If you're like me, you get extremely nostalgic, reflecting on memories of seasons past and fondly remembering loved ones who are no longer with us.

“You love them - because they're family and all - but they make it reeeaaally tough to like them at times.”

On a lighter note, though, we're also trying to navigate the best way to deal with the loved ones who are still around and happen to drive us nuts! Let's face it...you don't even have all that much in common with some of these people - except for, you know...blood ties, DNA, and heritage.

Still, over the next few weeks, you've got to find a way to cope during family gatherings. Here's how I manage the relationships with some of my loved ones and try to keep them from getting on my last nerve.

Obnoxious Cousin

OMG...Another holiday, another test of your patience by none other than your Obnoxious Cousin. You know the type: They're the loudest person in the room, stand ready to debate the smallest of things, and they have to be the center of attention at. all. times. They frequently interrupt other people's sentences, because, in their mind, their opinions and so-called jokes are paramount and have to be heard. Oh, and Obnoxious Cousin's behavior worsens when you bring alcohol into the mix, so be prepared.

You love them - because they're family and all - but they make it reeeaaally tough to like them at times. As much as you adore your Aunt and Uncle, you often wonder how these two lovely people managed to produce this spawn…errrr, offspring. Secretly though, you hold them responsible for failing to check the abhorrent behavior of Obnoxious Cousin during their formative years.

You've previously learned the hard way that nothing good can come from a lot of interaction with Obnoxious Cousin. The best way to deal with them is to simply NOT deal with them. They'll try their hardest to ensnare you into some silly dispute, but I urge you not to take the bait. After all, these types of people specialize in petty quarrels, so you can't and won't win. It will only upset you and possibly ruin your day, and who needs that?

If you wind up in Obnoxious Cousin's crosshairs, try not to engage. Their goal is to get a rise out of you of some sort, so don't give them the satisfaction. If Obnoxious Cousin tries to "come for you," don't hesitate to leave the room, if at all possible. That usually sends a loud and clear message that you're not here for their shenanigans. Once enough time has passed, they will have likely moved on to another target. Hopefully, one of the elders in the room can reel Obnoxious Cousin in before they spoil everyone's holiday fun...again.

The Grandstander

It doesn't matter what the topic of conversation is, please know that the Grandstander is always out to get the proverbial "W." If someone excitedly mentions that they've got a trip to Paris coming up, the Grandstander might say they went recently, and/or stayed at some exclusive, high-end hotel. If someone says they just bought a new car, the Grandstander has to remind everyone that theirs is somehow nicer. Let's say one of your family members casually talks about being in the market for product X this holiday season. Well, the Grandstander has either had product X "for years," has two of them (or at least, one more than everyone else in the room), or got it at an unbelievable price.

What's truly unbelievable here is how the Grandstander turns a casual conversation into a competitive sport. They shamelessly attempt to steal everyone's thunder to boast about themselves, regardless of the subject. Their dismissive "been there, done that" attitude toward other people's stories and accomplishments comes off as both rude and annoying.

Here's another situation where you can't win, though, so it's best not to try. The Grandstander is not to be outdone. If there is a positive aspect of their behavior, it's to understand that their intent is generally not one of malice. Their actions often stem from deep-seated personal insecurities and their desperate need to feel superior in all situations, sadly. Still, dealing with them can be exasperating, so it's best to keep the conversations short with this one.

The Political Pundit

Eye rolls abound the moment the Political Pundit enters the room. You know it's just a matter of time before there is a lull in the conversation, and he/she (let's be real...it's usually a "he") will seize the opportunity to take everyone down THAT path. It's as if they thrive off of making everyone's environment as awkward and uncomfortable as possible.

To make matters worse, their opinions usually differ from the group as a whole. Their dissenting opinion is actually part of their schtick. They know someone will challenge their unpopular views, which will make for a robust and lengthy discussion. Make no mistake about it...they fully intend to hold the room hostage with this conversation for the next few minutes or hours.

Regardless of your political views, you probably just want to enjoy your holiday in peace. After all, you (understandably) feel that a family gathering should be a safe space, even when we don't share the same beliefs.

The best advice I can offer is to simply change the subject. You came here to take a mental break, eat, laugh, and enjoy good times with the ones you love. Don't allow someone's incessant need to appear smarter or more informed than everyone else usurp the discussion for the evening. Steer the conversation towards something lighter (i.e., sports, movies, or television). Trust me, once you make the initial move to another topic, someone else will pick up on those cues (often unwittingly) and second the notion. The Political Pundit will usually get the point, and give it a rest.

We could go on all day about annoying family members. The key thing to remember is always to keep your cool and never let them get under your skin. Spending time with family is a tremendous blessing, and these days we're all so busy that we usually don't get the opportunity to do it as often as we'd like. Focus on the loved ones whose company you truly enjoy, and don't miss out on the chance to make more wonderful holiday memories. If all else fails, you can always use my approach and keep your wine glass full!