It’s that time of year again! Time for friends and family to gather for festive meals, wonderful parties… and memorable arguments.
I began writing and researching this a few months ago, but recently spent a very memorable (see pun above) day with the in-laws…
How to behave at a family soirée
1. First things first - Today, no one has to work. No one wants to talk about work.
2. Do you have dietary restrictions? I’m sorry. But please… keep it to yourself. If you can't eat what normal people eat, then bring your own food. Making demands or a scene scene about the menu is plain-old-selfish.
3. Don't blame it on the a-a-a-a-a-alcohol. Just don't drink. Everyone is uncomfortable. Most would like to throw back a bottle of Jack to get through the event.
But… Don’t. Do. It.
4. Papa… don’t preach. No one wants a lecture. We all know our own faults. It’s a holiday party. No one came to be fixed, changed, or converted. This is not the time nor the place to try.
5. Be Social. Which means… let others talk. Encourage this by asking questions that allow others to talk about themselves.
6. Are you an expert? Regardless of how much you know… learn to L-I-S-T-E-N. (See #5)
7. I’m sorry - I didn’t realize this was a competition! Why do you need all of the attention? Avoid trying to tell a better story or joke.
8. I’m polite… why aren’t you? Avoid the 3-C’s: Correcting, Criticizing, or Complaining.
9. Why waste the energy on lying? Besides, it's offensive. And, the truth always comes out in the end.
10. Remember: It’s always a bad idea to start an argument. If someone else starts one… kindly deviate the conversation or find an excuse to walk away.
Overall…. BEHAVE!
Remember:
People respect those who manage themselves.
Appreciation is a gift that lasts a lifetime
People are attracted to warmth
