You gotta love the holiday all us hungry Americans embrace. The turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, warm apple pie…nothing but an endless buffet of goodness.
Then there’s family. The uncle you never really see, the socially awkward cousins. If only you could skip the “hello’s” and “how are you’s” and get right to the stuffing your face part.
Well, here’s your Thanksgiving survival guide on how to avoid awkward family. You’ll thank me after the big day. Enjoy!
Go In For The Hug
Instead of waiting for the awkward, sloppy kiss from the Uncle you barely see, just go in for the hug. The quick embrace is way less awkward than a handshake and the kiss on the cheek to a family member that may feel like a stranger. It’s the safer option.
Avoid Eye Contact
Avoiding eye contact with the awkward cousin you don’t really talk to will make it hard to leave it open to start a conversation. Keep your head in the plate, and keep eating! It’s a lot harder to speak while you’re eating.
,,,And if you do get stuck in engaging in conversation..
Keep it short, light and fun. Briefly discuss school plans, your major, maybe some club activities. I know it’s hard to try and avoid the inevitable question, “so, tell me, do you have a boyfriend?” It definitely sucks when you’re asked that question and you’re single. Just take it with stride, smile and confidently say, “No, I’m happy and looking to enjoy myself while in college.” They can take that comment however they’d like.
Help Clean Up
Keeping busy is a great way to avoid any awkward encounter. Example: playing Candy Crush on your phone while on a crowded subway. It also works best to keep busy on Thanksgiving. Example: clearing the kitchen table. It’s the perfect way to avoid sitting around the table with the elders, listening to stories from 1925. It’s also a perfect opportunity to take part and lend a hand in Thanksgiving dinner if you’re not the cooking type.
So, collegiettes, take this advice on Turkey Day and remember to have fun! It may be awkward at times, but Thanksgiving is the one day of the year to be with family and close friends that you love. Enjoy!