How To Survive Independence Day Weekend, In GIFs

If you're lucky enough to have some time off from work this weekend to celebrate the 4th of July, you're probably feeling like this:

But, let's face it, holidays can be something of an ordeal when everything doesn't go according to plan.

Here are five stressful scenarios the Independence Day weekend might throw at you, and some advice on how to tackle them -- in GIFs, of course.

1. Traffic

Trying to drive anywhere is basically like doing this:

And feeling like this.

But hopefully you have some buds in the car with you who will sing along to that Justin Timberlake CD the whole way without complaint.

If all else fails: bring on the road trip snacks.

2. Crowds

You're hoping for a serene day at the beach/park/pool...

...but even though you show up at the crack of dawn, the scene is more like this.

Either embrace the crowds and jump right in...

Or bow out and find somewhere else to relax. There's no shame in admitting defeat.

3. Food stress.

Waiting for the grill to heat up takes way too long, which can make you feel like this:

So make sure you get the most out of every meal,

Leave room for dessert,

And don't get hung up counting calories. Because, no matter what you eat, this will always be true:

4. Inclement weather
It's the middle of summer (not that NYC has received that memo), so most of us want to spend our office-free days outside in the sunshine.

Unfortunately, there's always the chance of a sudden downpour...

Or worse.

So be prepared for everything, and have a good attitude about it -- because we all know that it's totally possible to have fun in a rainstorm.

5. Being... overserved.

A long weekend -- especially one that involves family -- provides lots of opportunities to get a bit sloppy. However, it's best to resist the urge to self-medicate, no matter how crazy your cousins might drive you.

All we can advise here is keeping it as classy as possible...

And, at all costs, avoid making a scene.

Because at the end of the day, the 4th of July is all about fun, friends... and fireworks.

Happy Independence Day!