5 Ways Thanksgiving “Flops” Can Actually Make You Happy

FLOP: THE HEAT IS ON, AND THERE’S NO TIME FOR HOMEMADE PIES…

Apple Pie

Joi Boost: Everyone may be expecting your famous pecan pie or that Cook’s Illustrated pumpkin trifle, but even some of the biggest experts on the food scene believe there’s nothing wrong with store-bought dessert (especially when you’re feeding a crowd). Says one savvy food blogger, “Don’t stress! A party is just a gathering of people that WANT to be there, WANT to enjoy your company, and are really happy to not be cooking the entire meal themselves.

FLOP: TIME TO EAT AND YOUR TURKEY’S NOT DONE…

Cheering of Wine Glasses

Joi Boost: I’m leaving, said no one ever. Pass the cheese and crackers, pop open the champagne, pour some wine, and start a game that gets everyone interacting. One example? Go around the room and have each person finish this sentence: “The craziest moment I’ve ever had was when…” Trust us, while the evening will be memorable, no one will remember that the meal was late.

FLOP: YOU’VE BEEN COOKING ALL DAY AND YOUR HAIR LOOKS LIKE HELL…

Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo Bottle

Joi Boost: When you’re trying not to burn the marshmallows on that sweet potato casserole, we’re pretty certain the last thing you want to do is slip into the bathroom and start an hour-long hairstyling sesh. Instead, be thankful you can reach for Joico’s Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo — it instantly zaps the greasies, plus creates the kind of glam volume you get from a full-on wet wash.

FLOP: BETWEEN THE GRAVY, THE STUFFING, AND AUNT LOU’S GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE, YOU BROKE YOUR DIET IN A BIG WAY…

Thanksgiving Food

Joi Boost: According to dietician, Patricia Bannon, RDN, save the self-flagellation for another day. “There are certainly times when people overeat unhealthy foods and feel emotionally and/or physically bad afterwards….but it’s really your total diet and total lifestyle that matters.” So give yourself permission to indulge, and jump back on the diligent-eating bandwagon on Black Friday.

FLOP: YOUR COUSIN JUST SHOWED UP — UM, WITH HIS ADULT KIDS. AND THEIR SPOUSES.

Thankful Signage With Food Images

Joi Boost: The etiquette pros at PopSugar have some perfect suggestions…and they’re easy as pie. “Invite them in, get them a drink and quickly squeeze in their place setting at the table. Don’t worry if you have to use makeshift seating with office chairs or outdoor chairs. And if you don’t think you have enough food for everyone, whip up a quick side dish such as spaghetti and jarred pasta sauce. It’s not exactly standard Thanksgiving fare, but at least this way there’s enough to go around.” Some experts even believe that this kind of “emotional flexibility” is actually good for our mental health, because it helps avoid feeling stressed or panicky.