Mother-In-Law Woes!

The mother-in-law and daughter-in-law (MIL-DIL) relationship is always tricky. The golden rule would be to let your mother-in-law know that she occupies a primary spot in her son’s heart and always will. If that doesn’t work, here are other tips that will make you her darling!

Laugh your waythrough it
Humour is one of the best ways to manage hostility. As challenging as it can be, be careful not to misdirect the humour toward your mother-in-law.

Break the cycle of criticism
When faced with criticism, try to listen calmly for a few minutes and redirect the conversation to a more neutral subject.

Be mindful of your negative, positive
AND neutral interpretations
Our negative mind can take us down a slippery road if we don’t hit the breaks. A harmless, innocent comment can trigger underlying feelings that may be completely unrelated to the current situation. Your best bet
is to hold your breath before
you respond.

A regular dose of flattery – ahem, genuine flattery
Don’t we all love a compliment? Your mother-in-law is no different. Remember to compliment the qualities you value and want to reinforce.

Create opportunities for bonding
We secrete oxytocin, which is the hormone of love and bonding through shared activities and talking. As clichéd as it may sound, try to plan relaxing activities together on a regular basis.

Manage your expectations
Even if you would like to be besties with your mother-in-law remember that personality and previous experiences play a role in the development of a relationship. You may have to accept a less intimate or familiar relationship over time, if that’s what brings about a sense of balance between you.