Everyone knows that family-oriented holidays can be just as stressful as they are fun. Being stuck sitting around a table with your family can lead to more serious fighting than over who gets the last roll. These are the 10 best tips to avoid family feuding this Thanksgiving (or any big gathering).
1. Avoid sensitive subjects. Topics like politics or religion are known to get people riled up, especially if you and your family disagree on the subject. It’s better to talk about neutral topics, like reminiscing about fun family trips or memories.
2. Don’t take the bait. We all have those family members that always seem to say the one thing that will set you off. But just remember that it’s a holiday and it’s not worth your time to fight with them.
3. Keep calm. I know it’s difficult. If you feel yourself heating up, take some deep breaths. Count to ten and just breathe. Escalating the situation by screaming at each other won’t do anything other than make it awkward for everybody else. In some cases, the more you show your anger or frustration, the more the person you’re fighting with will want to annoy you.
4. Don’t yell or curse. Besides the fact that it makes you look extremely immature, it won’t do any good. In fact, it could escalate the fight even more.
5. Get some space. If an argument does happen, don’t fuel the fire. Get some air, go for a walk, or even just leave the room. Give yourself some time to calm down before you do something you might regret later.
6. Try to be the bigger person. I know it’s hard sometimes and nobody ever really feels like being the bigger person, but in the end, it looks better and will feel better.
7. Avoid having people choose sides. Don’t bring anybody else into your battle. It’s unnecessary and only serves to make others uncomfortable.
8. Try to compromise. A good compromise leaves each person satisfied but not thrilled. Neither should get exactly what they want but get enough to be content. Keep it civil and compromise.
9. Never get violent. Violence just escalates things more and serves to injure someone more than just emotionally. You should never resort to physical violence in any situation, but especially so with people you can’t avoid. As cliche as it sounds, remember violence is never the answer.
10. Have patience. Yes, family can be annoying and tedious, but in the end they are family and deserve your respect.