How to Find Peace With a Big Family
If you are married, odds are you have had to deal with in-laws at some point. Whether they live nearby or not, chances are they will be around for holidays and special occasions. What is the best way to handle your spouse’s family? How do you get along with them? How should you act around them? These questions can seem daunting when it comes time to navigate complex relatives.
Remember they are family, even if it doesn’t feel like it all the time. Try to be as polite and civil as possible. Buy them some small, but thoughtful gifts, such as thank you for being my mother in law mug. It won’t cost you a lot, but it can go a long way.
Include everyone when you can. Do not forget to include them in events and gatherings when possible, even if they are difficult to be around. Avoid gossiping or judging their actions in front of your children. This will only make the relationship worse over time.
Be a good example for kids by being polite and civil yourself. Try not to discuss sensitive subjects that may upset anyone at the table– an argument about politics might end up ruining Thanksgiving dinner! Remember this is family so try your best to stay positive throughout the night despite any disagreements there may have been beforehand with different members of his/her family. Make it clear from early on what topics should remain off-limits during meal times with extended relatives such as the conflict between you and your mother-in-law.
Keep any problems you have with different people in the family to yourself as much as possible. It will only make things more difficult for everyone over time if there is a lot of arguing amongst relatives at gatherings like Thanksgiving dinner or Christmas Eve dinner.
