Whew! We made it past Halloween, but we can’t relax just yet because, as we all know, it’s the holiday season. The holiday season is probably one of the most exhausting times of the year for introverts. For the next two months, American culture will expect us all to attend parties, events, performances, spend copious amounts of quality time with family and friends. Oh, we’ll give lip service to taking time for reflection, but how can anyone spend time reflecting if they don’t have the time to spend? Don’t get me wrong. I love the sparkle and shine of the holidays. I love spending quality time with my family. It’s all of the other stuff — the shopping, the socializing, the frenetic air that accompanies forced extroversion . . . to me, that’s not really what the holiday season is about. To me, and I think to many other introverts, the holiday season is really about one thing — SURVIVAL! No. It’s not the reason for the season, but it is a byproduct of the season. So, in that vein, this playlist strives to not only get you in the mood for the holiday season, but also keep you sane, even as Aunt Lucinda-May insists that you eat just one more piece of her moldy fruitcake. Whether you’re trying to escort slow pokes out the door after they’ve overstayed their welcome, or survive your weird niece whose fashion sense is so colorful, you’re afraid you’ll get a migraine, we’ve got you covered.
Click here for the Always Uttori Holiday Survival Playlist, or scroll down for full playlist.
1. Family Comes First-Whitney Houston
First, who wouldn’t want to listen to Whitney Houston to get in the Holiday mood? This song is perfect when you need a reminder of the spirit of togetherness.
2. Yanghwa Bridge- Zion T
This is a beautiful song. Korean R&B artist, Zion. T, sings about childhood memories of waiting for his dad to come home safe from his job as a taxi driver. He wishes his family would be safe, happy, and healthy. Those of us who are close to our families can relate. Zion T proves that there is no language barrier to love and family connection. Translation here.
3. Thanksgiving –George Winston
This is another great song for the holidays, calming and relaxing if you’re in need of a mental break, but also exuberant and happy. Great to listen to while eating the big meal and conversing. Playing this song during the holidays is a family tradition for my family.
4. Time to say Goodbye- Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman
When the conversation slows, and the food has all been eaten, guess what, it’s time to say goodbye. Maybe this song can act as a subtle way of getting lingering guests out the door without seeming rude. Since most of the lyrics, except for the refrain of “Time to say goodbye” are in Italian, they won’t know the song is really about sharing experiences with a loved one. Lyrics here.
5. Thanks for the Memories- Fall Out Boy
OK, technically, this song is about a one night stand; but, if you’re not big on family gatherings, you might be able to relate to the line, thanks for the memories, even though they weren’t so great. On the other hand, the song will also allow you to vent any leftover family drama.
Full Playlist