Help? Is there any way I can swap my family for the Holidays?

Have you ever wished you could swap your family for the holiday season?

You. Are. Not. Alone!!

In our recent episode, we talk about various family dynamics that we can run into over the holidays – those awkward weight or dating questions, the hopeful helpers and the couch-sitters – but also the joy of togetherness, and how to make the most of it.

Here are a few gentle reminders for coping with family feuds:

• Take your manners with you – It’s easy to ‘let loose’ with family members but that doesn’t have to translate into war! Family gatherings should be enjoyable for everyone, so this may be the one occasion to mind your manners and bite your tongue!

• Be patient – everyone may have a different opinion, and that’s ok, we’re not robots or clones! Listen to the thoughts and opinions of others, you may learn something new and interesting… if not, agree to disagree!

• Use the art of diversion – if you feel someone else is not behaving appropriately or disrupting the conversation, divert onto another topic… gracefully of course!

• Handle awkward questions with style! If someone asks you a question that you feel uncomfortable answering, throw it back to them. Ask them to answer the same question or ask them why they want to know this information?

For example:

Question – When are you planning on having children? Answer: When are you planning on having children?

Question – Do you have a boyfriend yet? Answer: I think everyone is more interested in knowing whether you have a boyfriend or not! Or: I don’t think anyone is interested in my love life… what about yours?

What is your favourite/worst part about coming together? Send us your family dilemmas to info@mannersmattertwo.com