Consequently, the grown-ups of our childhoods (our parents, caregivers, and teachers) were all just figuring stuff out, even as they were tasked with nurturing and guiding us. So, of course, they all failed at some point.

Even in the happiest, most close-knit families, spending time with large groups of family members or with family members that you don't see regularly can be draining, especially when you add in the pressure and demands of the holiday season.