How to Meet Unrealistic Relatives at Christmas?

Holiday gatherings can be joyous occasions, with relatives coming from afar to be together and share a meal. But a family gathering can bring as many headaches as it does smiles, particularly when you must deal with a difficult relative. One of the more frustrating experiences at a Christmas gathering is dealing with a family member who has unrealistic expectations and demands. Whether commenting on the gifts, the food or the weather, an unrealistic guest always has something to complain about.

1. • 1
     Prepare responses to problems a complainer is likely to find in foreseeable areas, such as the food.
   • 2
     Remain calm when dealing with the unrealistic guest. Responding with anger or complaints of your own will escalate the problem.
   • 3
     Take breaks away from the unrealistic family member when possible.
   • 4
     Ignore the complaints on a personal level. As you anticipate the member with unrealistic expectations to find faults, it becomes easier to prevent his or her complaints from upsetting you.
   • 5
     Deflect complaints when possible by pre-empting them or agreeing. Making a simple statement like, "The biscuits are a bit overcooked" as they are brought out can cut the complainer off before he or she starts.
   • 6
     Remember that your time with the complainer is temporary. This realization can help keep you calm as things get irritating.
   • 7
     Have an exit plan, such as a specific time you must be on the road, if you are not the host.
   • 8
     Relax in the days after the family's visit. Failing to properly unwind from the stress of dealing with a difficult relative can cast a shadow that hangs for weeks if you don't allow for a proper relaxation period.

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