The mandates are clear: Don’t gather indoors. Keep your distance. Wear masks. And yet, inevitably, people are going to attend their families’ Thanksgiving dinners and holiday gatherings — despite strict warnings from health experts and local governments. I know it’s the holidays, I know we’re yearning for connection and our families more than ever. But with cases rising across the country, it’s just not prudent.

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Let’s say you already made that wise decision. That doesn’t mean you don’t feel guilty about it, and it’s worse if your family doesn’t support your choice. So how can you deal with that guilt? We have tips.

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Xo, Ashley Rockman

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FYI

A PSA: You don’t need a “reason” for taking off work. And you certainly don’t need to tell your boss that reason, either. For those of us lucky enough to have vacation benefits, it doesn’t matter if you’re taking the day or the week — how you choose to spend that time is your choice and does not require an explanation.