When you decide to marry someone, you don’t care about his/her family. Only him/her matters to you. But, as time goes by, there they are, his/her parents, your inlaws. Suddenly they become the source of your problems.
However, they are the parents of your beloved one. They are also the grandparents of your kids. So, there is no way for you to get rid of them from your life. They will always be part of your family.
Does it mean you have to live the rest of your life being their enemy or consider them as enemies? That is beyond silly.
As long as you want it, you can make friend with them. How To?
• No critique
No matter how they drive you crazy with their behavior, never ever criticize them. Even if your spouse does it, it doesn’t mean you can. Well, you can but it would be better if you don’t.
• Be helpful
Try to help them with some stuff while you can. Yet, it doesn’t mean that you have to be some kind of their slave.
• Stay away from any financial involvement
Either they to you or you to them. A little financial help once in a while is ok. Sometimes, new couples need support from the inlaws or parents. Yet, don’t let them interfere too much with your household spending or income. If your spouse can support his/her parents, let him/her be and don’t prevent him/her from doing it.
• Show a little respect
Basically, old people need to be respected. If you show just a little bit of disrespect, they would feel deeply disappointed. Try to avoid that. If your hurt them, how can you make friend with them?
• Visit them regularly
If you live nearby, an hour or two every one or two weeks can make them very happy. Let them have the chance to play with your children. If you make the first move to see them, they won’t have the chance to ring you every single day and drive you crazy.
Having a good relationship with your inlaws will enhance your spouse’s respect towards yourself.
David W Richards is a happy husband and a joyful father of two kids. He loves sharing tips on family and parenting. He also writes about auto and car, and truck.