Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, you may be invited to an unbelievable number of parties and events. The holidays may be no sweat for your social-butterfly friends, but what if you have social anxiety? Your palms get sweaty and your stomach feels queasy just thinking about it.

You might tell yourself you’re just being shy or an introvert, but social anxiety is on another level.

“Introversion is an ingrained personality trait, but social anxiety often causes intense fear or stress in social settings. People may worry that they’ll be watched or judged by others,” said Sabrina Renteria, MD, a Cedars-Sinai psychiatrist. 

Perhaps you’d like to attend certain festivities, but you’re worried they’ll trigger anxiety. Or maybe you’re tempted to skip every event on the calendar, but you’re concerned about disappointing your outgoing partner and close friends.

How can you set yourself up for success this holiday season?

“Outline your plan for the season and have open communication,” Renteria said. “Set boundaries for things you know will work, and find ways to challenge yourself.”

Here are some strategies that may help you feel more at ease.

Read: The Secret to Happier Holidays

Who said that New Year’s Eve is the only time to watch the clock? If you’re anxious about attending a party, decide ahead of time how long you’ll stay.

“Ask yourself, ‘Can I reasonably stay for one or two hours?’” Renteria said. “Commit to a time limit and tell your friend or partner ahead of time so that they’ll expect it when you want to leave.”

It’s hard going to parties alone, especially if you have social anxiety. Invite a friend, co-worker or partner along to decrease your anxiety.

“Plan ahead to manage expectations,” Renteria advised. “Communicate openly with your companion about how uncomfortable you can feel when you’re alone at parties, and let them know you’d really appreciate their company throughout the event. That way, you’ll have some comfort by bringing someone you can depend on.”

Read: Helping a Loved One With Anxiety During the Holidays

Some people with social anxiety feel uncomfortable at parties because they don’t know what to say. Counteract this fear by preparing a story to share or a question to ask people.

“It’s going to take the heat off of you if you have some things in mind that you want to say,” Renteria said.

It isn’t awkward to be the first guest at the party if you do it purposefully. An early arrival helps you ease into the crowd, which will trickle in slowly after you get there.

If helping the host is a positive distraction, you’re more likely to be assigned tasks if you’re early.

“It’s brilliant because it’s less intimidating when you’re helping orchestrate the event,” Renteria said. “You’re helping curate the experience, so people look at you like you’re the authority on things. And there’s less expectation for you to have deep conversations with people—because you’re busy!”