BOOM Edition 3 Jul 2016 Issue | Page 35

WOMEN’S Having issues with your in-laws? Here are a few tips to deal with them D ealing with in-laws can be tricky especially because they play an important role in your spouse's life. It is not easy to balance your needs with the needs of the others. What is worse is that you have to be careful and maintain harmony in the family. Here are a few tips for those who find it tough to deal with difficult in-laws. Read on.. The first and foremost thing is to work things out with your spouse. Half your battle is won if your partner understands your needs and expectations. Don't take every little issue to your partner and make things difficult for him/her. Never make them choose between you and a relative. Understand that, even if your spouse's parents are mean to you, they are after all your their parents. Another important thing to do, is to come to terms with the fact that your in-laws are not appreciative of you. Stop comparing your new home with your parents' place. Things can never be the same and you need to accept that! Speaking things out is always better. Never have conversations behind their back. Back-biting is not going to solve anything. It is better to speak it out with your inlaws. It is best to have your partner around while the discussion is on, so that they are equally involved and everything is transparent. If your in-laws are being fussy, learn to let go. Respect the fact that they are older than you. There is no point getting upset and holding grudges against them. Don't shoot your mouth off. Don't lose temper and yell at them. Things will go against you. As much as possible, try and avoid conversations with your in-laws that are bound to flare up and become a fight. Ask your spouse to do the talking when it comes to touchy topics. Don't get upset over silly fights and taunts. In the larger scheme of things, these insignificant fights don't really matter. It is important to share a special bond with your spouse. Don't force yourself to be nice to your in-laws. Know your limitations. Don't change into the person your in-laws want you to be. Don't try and change your inlaws either. Be individualistic, and tell them where you draw the line.Acceptance is the best way to go. Take regular breaks to your parents house and crib all you want. This can be a good stress buster. Ultimately, balance in your family is very important. Avoid watching TV soaps that might influence you. 35 | BOOM