The holiday season is a time where families and loved ones can gather to enjoy moments of joy and love. However, political differences have been known to turn conversation sour during these times, leading to strains in family relationships. No matter how strong one’s political beliefs are, nothing is worth losing bonds with loved ones. Here are a few tips to avoid political conflict with family during the holidays.
Consider putting a pause on political discussion at the dinner table to avoid arguments or family rifts, especially in cases where there are two opposing sides that will likely never agree. Instead, choose topics of other shared interests that are not tied to political issues to create great holiday memories.
If you choose to discuss politics, do so in a strategic manner. Try to maintain an open mind and really listen to what the other party is saying without trying to shape your next argument. Be ready to learn about different viewpoints and give an interest to what the other person is saying. Adding in some wise humor in between difficult topics can help to lighten the weight of the conversation. Stay calm during discussion and be mindful of the level of your tone, especially when alcohol is in the picture. Lastly, respect the other person’s space, thoughts, and opinions - try to exit the conversation on a positive note, leaving room for more discussion in the future.
Being passionate about political issues is a great thing. However, it is also important to recognize the value of family and weigh the costs of bringing political discussion into the festivities.
Source
https://www.verywellfamily.com/when-families-disagree-about-politics-4112342
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