How to Deal with Obnoxious Relatives

Amy Applebaum's picture
Posted by Amy Applebaum on September 12, 2007 3:03 PM PDT
100% recommended of users recommended this
Saving...
Recommend this? YES NO

1. Choose not to be offended by this person
2. Choose that they are ignorant to the facts and just listen to what it sounds like when you don’t have all the information
3. Choose that, although their opinions don’t resonate with you, that it’s interesting to listen to how unique and different our perspectives can be
4. Choose that you want to hear what the “obnoxious relative” has to say
5. Then, maybe choose to inquire…ask questions as to how he/she came to that perspective, what has them believe what they believe
6. Finally, you can choose not to be around this person

1. You must first distinguish that your “problem” with the “obnoxious relative” is just that…YOUR problem. If you didn’t think that they were “obnoxious,” there would be no problem.
2. Accept Reality - When you “accept” reality, in this case the obnoxious relative, you will immediately stop trying to change something that just is what it is. This frees you up to stop blaming them for being them and start making choices for yourself that work.
3. Make some new choices!

If you enjoyed this blog entry, subscribe to our newsletter and we'll keep you updated with fresh new content.
You are not logged in, so your comment will be posted as "Anonymous." Log in or register now!