Navigating family dynamics and differing opinions can be difficult, especially during the holidays. However, it is important to maintain harmony even when addressing sensitive subjects. There are many strategies that can be used to approach difficult conversations with empathy and effectiveness during the holiday season.
Know Who You Are Working With
Holidays tend to escalate emotions, with things like planning, deadlines, and money. Another reason why people are more emotional around the holidays is because of gatherings where there are many different opinions on typically controversial topics such as politics, lifestyle choices, or parenting styles. You should conduct some self-reflection before entering any conversation, identify what things make you upset so that you can stay away from those topics. Remain positive in any conversation you have, if you are calm, the people around you are likely to follow your lead.
Coming in Hot
One very important thing to do before engaging in conversation is to set realistic expectations, not all issues can be solved in one talk with someone. Coming in hot to a gathering or conversation is a sure sign for trouble ahead. Prepare yourself for the potential for these conversational, not active stonewalling. Active listening is another key tool to use when talking about difficult things. Be open to all opinions whether you agree with them or not and not everything needs a rebuttal. Clarify boundaries before speaking with anyone, don’t be afraid to respectfully express topics you don’t want to discuss.
Practice Empathy
Empathy is necessary when diffusing situations, statements like “I see where you’re coming from” or “that is an understandable opinion” are helpful in these situations. Try to use “I” statements rather than “you.” Using “you” statements can make whoever you are speaking to feel like you are accusing them of something, which can make things more stressful. You can always take a break from a conversation if it gets too stressful and come back when you and anyone involved are less emotional.
Do It Well
If you are going to fight, fight right. Listen to what is being said to you, respond in a calm way. Degrading speech and a high tone voice are great ways for a conversation to go south quickly. Walking a mile in their shoes is one way to see another’s perspective. If you find yourself unable to do that, you might want to look at what is really going on. Seeking help from a licensed professional may be the thing to help look at why some conversations are difficult for you to have.
Get Help From a Counselor in Palestine, TX
At Cypress Roots Counseling, we understand the struggle that individuals and couples face today and want to come alongside them to help them on the marathon of relationships. By scheduling a consultation you can meet with a therapist to discuss your needs and goals for couples counseling. It is never too late to seek counseling for yourself, your relationship or your family. Trust your instincts and the feeling that something is not right and get help today. Our team would be honored to offer support from our Palestine, TX-based practice. Get started today by giving us a call at (903) 300-2705, emailing us at jaclyn@cypressrootscounseling.com or by clicking the Request appointment below.
Other Services Offered at Cypress Roots Counseling
We understand that you may be dealing with more than one mental health or relationship or parenting concerns. Cypress Roots Counseling offers individual and couples counseling, as well as parenting help. Ethical, professional and confidential services are what you will experience at Cypress Roots Counseling. There are many types of counseling, but at Cypress Roots you will encounter CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Solution-Focused Therapy and Gottman Method (Couples).
