In-laws can be a person’s worst nightmare because of the unspoken bad blood, but it is possible to build and maintain a cordial relationship with them.
When it comes down to two people who are in love saying ‘I do’, it is not just their union that is being initiated, it is a union between two families.
There are a lot of expectations that come with syncing ties with another different family and usually, these expectations are where World War three stems. In-laws are by far the hardest people to please. Yet, not entirely impossible.
You as newlyweds can take several steps to ensure you bud a sensible relationship with your in-laws. Here’s how:
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- Stay in touch
The urge to cut every extended family member off after the wedding is intense. However, this is not a risk worth taking with your in-laws. Keep tabs on them. Call, or drop in a text or two just to see how they are doing.
Even though they may not say it out loud, they appreciate the sweet gesture. Be sure that the next time, they might just be the ones calling you instead.
- Respect your in-laws
You are allowed to have your differences, but it is important to respect your in-laws. Respect their ideas, opinions, and way of life even though it may not be pleasing to you.
You have no right to control them because it is not, they that you are married to unless, of course, they are doing something dangerous.
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- Maintain healthy boundaries
We have all heard stories about controlling mothers-in-law. Those that want to live in their son’s house and go into his matrimonial bedroom, without giving a hoot.
If you are looking to achieve a good relationship with in-laws, honey, you better set some healthy boundaries. Show them how it is important to you that they respect your marriage and personal space, just as much as you do theirs irrespective of whether you married their son/daughter.
- Watch your tongue
Even the good book is clear about the damage a loose tongue can cause. Relating well with in-laws requires you to be very mindful of what you say, otherwise, you might as well get ready to fight.
Keep some comments to yourself. In any relationship, not everything has to be said out loud.
- Gifting
Oh, this one will cause a few heads to turn for sure. Sometimes you just have to show your loyalty by getting your in-laws nice things. It will make them look at you differently, and in a good way of course.
Some will still be hard-headed but as long as you did the good deed, hey! You are good to go.
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In the long run, in-laws are not all bad. Some are just more aggressive than others. If many couples have survived in-was for decades, you will be just fine.
