If you are lucky, you get to enjoy and appreciate the folks you work with, especially during the holidays. Honestly, some of us make lifelong friends at the office.

But not everyone looks forward to spending time with co-workers when we do not have to. Here are three ways to survive a holiday party you’re not too excited about:

1. Understand that you must be cordial.

Bob in the finance department may have been hella late with your check due to shopping on his lunch break on Black Friday, but an office party is not the best place to tell him about himself. No, you may not be on the clock officially, but you are still on the job. So act like it, and be cordial to the colleague((s) you do not care for.

2. Be professional.

Granted, you will most likely talk about the gig because it’s a party with those who you work with, but it is best to refrain from complaining or any other work drama. Remember that this is a time to celebrate, not b***h.

3. Try to have a good time.

Sure, you may want to be somewhere else—hell, anywhere else for that matter—but make a conscious effort to have fun with your co-workers! Understand that holiday parties aren’t just something to do for employees; they are meant to be great celebrations. So go ahead and celebrate, and leave the BS for another time.

Shantell E. Jamison is a digital editor for EBONY. She moderates various events centered on love, relationships, politics and wellness and has appeared on panels throughout the country. Her book, Drive Yourself in the Right Direction, is available now. Keep up with Shantell via her website, Facebook, Twitter @Shantell_em and Instagram @Shantell_em