The holidays are definitely upon us. It is the time of year to remember that you get to pick and choose where you want to go and who you want to be with. You do not have to attend everything you are invited to. While you should decline gracefully things you do not want to do, you are not required to give a long explanation of why you are not going. Learn to say things like, “I am sorry we can’t make it,” and leave it at that. Remember, the more you offer explanations and excuses, the more some people will try to overcome them.