Holidays are a time for coming together with family and friends to celebrate and enjoy each other's company while eating favorite holiday foods. However, it's not uncommon for family members to have differing opinions or conflicting personalities, leading to tension and disagreements. Finding common ground with family during holiday celebrations helps ease tensions and create a more harmonious atmosphere.
Need some strategies for finding common ground with family members? Here are 5 that you can start using now before your family get together:
Focus on Shared Experiences:
One of the best ways to find common ground with family members is to focus on shared experiences. This could mean reminiscing about past holiday celebrations or sharing stories about family members no longer with us. By focusing on the things that bring you together as a family, you can create a sense of unity and connection.
Avoid Controversial Topics:
While it's essential to have open and honest conversations with family members, it's also important to avoid controversial topics that may lead to arguments. This could include topics like politics, religion, or other sensitive issues. Instead, try focusing on topics everyone can enjoy and agree upon. Approach all topics with love and understanding.
Practice Active Listening:
When conversing with family members, practicing active listening is important. This means being present in the moment and trying to understand their perspective. Ask questions and show interest in what they have to say. By doing so, you can help to foster a sense of mutual respect and understanding.
Find Common Interests:
Another way to find common ground with family members is to find shared interests. This could mean discovering a love of cooking or exploring a mutual interest in a particular hobby. Finding activities you can enjoy together can create a sense of shared purpose and enjoyment.
Be Open-Minded:
It's vital to approach conversations with family members with an open mind. Be willing to wait your turn to speak to get their perspective and consider their point of view. This doesn't mean that you have to agree with everything they say, but it does mean being willing to consider different ideas and opinions.
In conclusion, finding common ground with family members during holiday celebrations can create a more positive and harmonious atmosphere. By focusing on shared experiences, avoiding controversial topics, practicing active listening, finding common interests, and being open-minded, you can help to create a more enjoyable and memorable holiday season for everyone involved.
Deborah Skomba is all about “Building Better Marriages - Before and After “I Do”
Offering Christ-centered programs with biblical truths empowers her clients to enjoy healthy relationships and stronger marriages built to last - through all seasons of life.
As a Therapist Coach and Behavior Expert and Founder of Heart to Heart Ministry and Coaching, she has an empathetic, consultative approach to helping her clients reach their goals. An ambassador of strength-based change - she firmly believes that “changing one’s thoughts will change their life.”
