How to deal with in-laws and extended family
It can be tough to deal with in-laws and extended family, especially if you don’t get along with them.
Here are 15 tips on how to deal with the situation:
1. Try to get to know them better.
Get together for family events or go out to lunch/dinner together. This will help you understand them better and hopefully build a better relationship.
2. Don’t take things personally.
If they say something that bothers you, try not to let it get to you. They may not be trying to hurt your feelings; they may just be different from you.
3. Be respectful.
Even if you don’t agree with them, show them respect. This will go a long way in building a better relationship.
4. Avoid arguments.
If you can sense that an argument is brewing, try to diffuse the situation before it gets out of hand.
5. Be flexible.
Try to be flexible when it comes to plans and activities. If they want to do something that you’re not interested in, go along with it and make the best of it.
6. Don’t gossip about them behind their back.
This will only make the situation worse and could hurt your relationship with them.
7. Try to see things from their perspective.
It’s easy to get caught up in our own point of view, but try to see things from their perspective as well. This will help you understand them better.
8. Be patient.
Dealing with family can be frustrating, but try to be patient. They may not change overnight, but slowly over time, things may improve.
9. Seek help if needed.
If you’re really struggling to deal with the situation, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. This could be from a therapist or counselor who can help you manage the situation better.
10. Talk to your partner about it.
If you’re having trouble with your in-laws or extended family, talk to your partner about it. They may be able to help you handle the situation better or provide support.
11. Set boundaries as needed.
If there are certain things that you’re not comfortable with, be sure to set boundaries. This will help prevent arguments and hurt feelings.
12. Don’t try to change them.
Accept that they are who they are and don’t try to change them. This is something that you need to do for yourself, not for them.
13. Keep communication open.
Communication is a key in any relationship, so be sure to keep the lines of communication open with your in-laws or extended family. This will help avoid misunderstandings.
14. Don’t take sides.
If there are conflicts within the family, try not to take sides. This will only make the situation worse and could damage your relationship with everyone involved.
15. Be yourself.
Don’t try to be someone you’re not just to please your in-laws or extended family. Be yourself and let them accept you for who you are.
FAQs:
1. How do you deal with in-laws who are overbearing?
If your in-laws are overbearing, try to set boundaries as needed. Explain to them what is and is not acceptable behavior. If they continue to cross the line, you may need to limit your interactions with them.
2. My in-laws always criticize me, what should I do?
Try not to take things personally and avoid arguing with them. If they continue to criticize you, you may need to set boundaries or limit your interactions with them.
3. I don’t get along with my partner’s family, what should I do?
Talk to your partner about it and see if they can help mediate the situation. You may also need to set boundaries with their family. If the situation is really bad, you may need to limit your interactions with them.
4. My in-laws are always trying to control me, what should I do?
Again, try to set boundaries as needed.
Conclusion:
Dealing with in-laws or extended family can be difficult, but there are ways to make it work. Be respectful, avoid arguments, and be flexible. Seek help if needed and keep communication open. Don’t try to change them and be yourself. With time and patience, things may improve.