We all know the feeling. Your aunt keeps asking about your post-graduation plans, your grandma keeps asking about your non-existent love life, and your mom has been bragging about you for the past 4 months. Now you have to sit at the dinner table and pass the stuffing to your cousin who can’t stop bragging about their pre-med school success. It’s exhausting to refrain from rolling your eyes all night. I feel you. What’s the best way to avoid these conversations AND impress them? Easy. Talk about things that probably no one else is doing. Here are some good ideas.
A recent adventure
Did you just go hiking? You probably have pictures. Maybe you went out of town for the weekend. You probably have pictures. Started a new fitness journey? It’s probably noticeable. Talk about those things! You look active AND you’re adventurous at the same time. Show them some pictures, maybe your cousin Shawn will finally shut up about his pre-med success.
Recommendations
Let’s face it, in the last couple weeks you have tried a new coffee place, a new restaurant, maybe even an ice cream place. You’ve visited some amazing places. TELL PEOPLE ABOUT IT. Your grandma will appreciate the coffee recommendation, and everyone will love the new restaurant ideas. You’ll become the cool family member with all the great places to go to.
Extra-curricular activities
Okay, before you say anything, I know this might be school related but it doesn’t have to be. You can talk about your sorority, the art club, the cool online magazine (Her Campus) you’ve been reading, or any athletic activities. They’re things you love doing, and they’re impressive! (P.S. Look at you adding onto your resume). They don’t have to be school related. You can talk about the volunteering you do on the weekends, the book club you joined, or anything new that you do in your free time.
There you have it, folks. You’ve impressed your grandma, proved your momma’s bragging true, and got your cousin Shawn to shut up. If you’re like me, wanna know what the best part is? You didn’t have to talk about grades, career plans, relationships, or anything you’re trying to avoid for a long weekend. Now, if you have a flourishing love life, over the top grades, and detailed grad plans, spread it like Nutella on toast. That’s cool, too. Happy Thanksgiving, and don’t forget to stack on the leftovers!