The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and getting together. It can also be a challenging period for many couples to manage intricate family dynamics, though. Do you recall that one Masi (aunt) who is always gossiping about your boyfriend or your own nosy mother-in-law whom you have to put up with at holiday parties? Or even worse, that relative who is always making remarks about your weight? It may sound difficult and you may wish to steer clear of them completely, but before committing, couples should have a strategy in place to minimize misunderstandings and conflicts and to preserve peace within the family.
Online marriage and relationship therapist Clinton Power recently offered some helpful advice to assist couples in overcoming the difficulties that family dynamics might provide during the Christmas season.
Have a pre-gathering conversation: Have a candid discussion with your spouse before going to any family functions. Talk about any fears or issues you both may have regarding the impending get-togethers. Having a common understanding aids in readiness for any obstacles, be it handling inquisitive relatives or steering clear of sensitive topics.
Set clear limits: Cooperation is essential. Work with your spouse to set appropriate boundaries for the situation. Decide which subjects may cause friction and make a plan to avoid them when the family gets together. Presenting a cohesive front enhances your strategy and reduces the likelihood of disagreements, whether they are over money or work-related matters.
Help one another: Give priority to helping one another during the event. Look for discreet ways to help your partner if you suspect that they are feeling anxious or upset. It can involve changing the subject or providing a covert way out. Being one another’s allies makes you more resilient in tough family circumstances.
Prepare your answers: Be prepared for the typical queries and remarks that come up at family get-togethers. Being prepared with a thoughtful response helps you avoid being caught off guard and gives you the confidence to handle potentially delicate situations.
Take breaks: In busy family environments, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Give yourself permission to pause when necessary. Taking a little stroll or spending some time outside might offer a beneficial reset, enabling you to rejoin the group with a renewed outlook.
Emphasize positive interactions: Encourage neutrality and friendliness in discourse. Disseminate the good news, talk about shared hobbies, and foster a cheerful mood. This helps create a fun and unforgettable family experience while also reducing tension.
Post-event debrief: Schedule some time with your companion for a post-event debrief following the festivities. Examine what went well and talk about ways to make it better for next meetings. This joint introspection not only makes you two closer, but it also better prepares you to handle family dynamics in the future.
In an interview with IndianExpress.com, relationship counselor Sidhharrth S. Kumaar of NumroVani stated that festivals bring a lot of planned and unplanned incidents in life, both monetarily and psychologically. “Keeping in mind the 3Cs—Communication, Collaboration, and Couple Time—is essential to navigating the journey.”
He went on to say that it is important to discuss your expectations and concerns with your spouse before to the event. It’s a great idea to familiarize yourself with your spouse’s culture, traditions, and customs before getting married if you were raised in a foreign country.
Furthermore, respect each other’s personal space and don’t be afraid to turn down unreasonable requests. Organizing holiday events with your significant other and their family guarantees fun times spent together. Finally, schedule some time to reconnect and relax after the hectic holiday season.
