The countdown to Christmas has begun, and that means Secret Santa, wacky ties and candy earrings, and the office Christmas party.

Whether you're looking forward to kicking back with your colleagues or thinking of excuses to avoid the celebrations, it doesn't have to be all that overwhelming.

Here are some tips to help you survive this party season:

1.       Don't over-commit yourself

The Christmas to-do list is a bit like the Christmas wish-list: it can easily spiral out of control. Saying yes to every invitation, pitching in to help with the party preparations or hand-delivering Christmas gifts to your clients can add up. Take the time to enjoy the festivities.

2.       Celebrate on the dance floor, not at your desk

If you work in an office that doesn't slow down over Christmas, or gets even busier, it can feel like the celebrations just get in the way of work. You don't want to be stuck at your desk an hour into the Christmas function. If there's a chance you'll be finishing off a report instead of enjoying the satays, ask a colleague to help, put in some extra time before the party or set aside non-urgent tasks.

3.       Organise time off so you don't have to throw a sickie 

If your Christmas party happens to be during the week and you're expected back at work the next day, throwing a sickie won't look good. So if you think you'll need a sleep-in the next day, schedule some time off or start your Christmas holidays earlier.

4.       Plan your exit strategy

A good exit plan is one that's been organised in advance. How will you get home after a few drinks? If you need to arrange your own transport after the party, work out a plan with your partner, carpool with your colleagues or book a cab so you don't get stranded.

5.       Meet Jim from finance

This year, take a different approach to conversation at the Christmas party. Instead of chatting with your usual group of work mates or talking work all night, get to know the guy from the finance department. That means talking about his plans for Christmas and the new year, not how his end-of-year financial reports are coming along.    

6.       Have fun

OK, so the venue might not be what everyone had in mind or the drinks run out in the first hour, it doesn't matter. This is your chance to spend time with your team mates in a relaxed environment, get to know staff from other departments and have some fun. Even if that means busting out a few moves on the dance floor.