How to Build Good Relations with In-laws

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Oh, those dreaded in-law stories make us all cringe but how true are these stereotypes? It is true that when you marry your spouse, you marry their family but your in-laws can be a wonderful addition to your life. There are no guarantees but here are some suggestions to help you along.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Step1

Step one is having a positive outlook on your extended families position in your life. You may not always see eye to eye on matters but then again, do you always agree with your own immediate family?

Think of these people as an extension of your spouse and love them for this reason first and foremost.

Step2

Second, is to include them in your life. Make time to call them and show concern for their lives. Spend time with them alone and with your spouse in order to build bonds as a family unit and as individuals.

Step3

Third, never try to alienate your spouse from their family. Be gentle in expressing negative opinions about them as your spouse may feel that they must pick sides. This is a very bad position to put your spouse in, even if unintentional. More often than not, you will come out on the losing end and even if not, your spouse (and their family members) may build resentment towards you.

Step4

Fifth, make time to assist his family doing tasks that they may not be able to perform alone. This will help to build strong bonds by showing that you care for them in a forsaking way. It is easy to take part in enjoyable pastimes but only true friends and family will help you in your time of need.

Step5

Lastly, be forgiving. Neither you nor they are perfect. When they make mistakes, accept apologies and even if none is given choose to forgive and move forward. It is sure to benefit your marital relationship and your own sense of peace of mind.

Comments

jaindinu said

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on 5/2/2008 Hi! your article was good to read i would like to share my own views here.........

The six most important words: "I admit i did a mistake"
The five most important words: "You did a good job"
The four most important words: "What is your opinion"
The three most important words: "If you Please"
The two most important words: "Thank You"
The one most important word: "We"
The least important word: "I"

Thank you for investing your time in reading this.

hnatalieann said

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on 4/23/2008 This is great advice, and everyone should try it with their in-laws! You might as well put effort into getting along with your in-laws since they are a part of your spouse!

seki said

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on 3/22/2008 Good article

ursaminor said

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on 2/29/2008 What a sweet idea. I'm about to be married, and my fiance doesn't have any family, but when I was married before, I really could have used this advice. It seems easy and self-evident, but I think that's a function of the clarity of your article. Thank you!

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