As we head into the year-end holidays, we look forward to our family traditions. We eat the same dishes, hang the same decorations, see the same people, listen to the same music, engage in the same activities we’ve enjoyed for years or even generations. Humans find comfort in familiarity, and resist change.

At least we resist change suggested by others. If it’s our idea, we can’t figure out why everyone makes such a fuss about trying something new.

So if you’re bored with the same old traditions, how can you get buy-in for a slight shift in the world order? Try this strategy:

1. Sow discontent.  In advance of the occasion, mention that must-have green bean casserole … and how soggy it gets by the time you arrive at Aunt Sue’s. Discuss how nice it would be spending the holidays at home for a change. Work up an actual cost comparison between driving and flying. Poll the extended family to find out how many would like to meet at a Walt Disney resort rather than the old family cabin. Perhaps people always do things the same way because it’s never occurred to them that doing something else is an option. Throw a few seeds and see how fertile the ground is.

2. Solicit suggestions.  Now that you have people thinking about other options, ask them to contribute ideas. Float yours along with the rest. If it’s good enough, you’ll be able to sell it, and people will embrace it as “ours” rather than “yours.” They may tweak your idea, making it even better, or come up with an alternative that’s better still. And when the discussion is over, you’ll have moved beyond the old traditions—with a minimum of fuss.

3. Review success.  After you’ve tried out your change, find out how well it was received. Perhaps your new approach will become a new tradition. Or maybe you’ll alternate this approach with more traditional practices. You could even repeat this strategy next year to create yet another new holiday experience.