Focus on the strength of what is there, not the hurt of what is missing. Set some realistic goals for your preparation. If others expect certain things for the holidays, invite them to help in the preparation. Establish a realistic budget and save for your Christmas purchases. Resist the temptation to run up credit card bills you will not be able to pay off in a reasonable time.
All families have ongoing problems that sometimes create tension.
The tension is sometimes heightened during the holidays and boils over to ruin an otherwise happy atmosphere. This is especially true when heavy alcohol use is a factor. Realize that now is not the time to fix long-standing family problems. Do what you can to let go of your own feelings and encourage others to focus on positive things as well. The holidays heighten feelings of loss because of a death of a family member or divorce.