Something Rude from Family Member? Experts Suggest the Following Responses

The table is prepared, family members and friends approach, and you are aware of the remarks and inquiries that will be made. Whether the comments are about your diet, weight, finances, relationships, profession, or children, your situation isn't out of the ordinary.

The holidays aren't always the happiest time of year for many people. This is because we are expecting confrontation or unwarranted questioning.

Setting boundaries, however, ought to be preferable to lashing out or fuming in silence.

However, setting boundaries is difficult, and it requires planning to know how to react rather than just responding to keep your feelings safe. Here's how the holiday season can begin.

Prepare in advance

One way to reduce conflict is to prepare a list of safe topics to switch to when the talk veers into a potentially sensitive area. Additionally, having a pre-holiday discussion on what you will and won't discuss can be beneficial.

And feel free to enjoy yourself a little. Perhaps create a bingo board with your siblings that you can laugh at when someone says something improper, or a jar that others must deposit money into when the taboo topics are brought up.

"Have you gained weight?"

Whether well-intentioned or critical, remarks regarding your weight or what's on your plate might cause discomfort.

"I understand that you are excited about your diet, but I'm trying to heal my relationship with food, so I'd prefer not talking about it," is a direct way to answer it. And feel free to leave the conversation if the body-shaming words continue.

"Why do you still keep single?"

When someone asks you about your love life, or lack thereof, you should give them two chances. The first time, changing the topic to something they are interested in.

The second time, you can subtly and softly express that you don't want to continue the conversation by using an answer such as "When I figure it out, I'll tell you."

"When will you (get married or have kids)?"

Although comments about getting married or starting a family can be extremely stressful, they frequently originate from a place of eagerness and love.

Begin by redirecting with a kind remark and a new discussion like: "I love your passion for love and your desire for everyone to have as fulfilling a relationship as you do. Tell me again, how did you get to meet Uncle Green?"

However, occasionally, even with the best of intentions, the effect hits a sensitive spot, such as asking someone who struggles with infertility. A straightforward statement like "I really don't want to talk about that" or a humorous one like "Well, I'm sure you don't want to hear about something that personal" might be used to end the topic.