I also use anti-seize and tighten by hand using a 3/8 ratchet and holding only by the head of the ratchet, not the handle.
Many years ago I had a 71 VW Bus and every time I changed the plugs they felt like they were cross threading or stripping. Never did though. I knew guys who raced with flat 4 VW engines and the first thing they did was drill out the plug holes and put heli-coils in. Made changing plugs much easier.