Christmas, on paper, is a time of joy, generosity…and loving get-togethers. Oddly enough, however, some people in fresh relationships feel like risking it all by waiting until that time to introduce their family to the new significant other in their lives. It’s awkward and nerve-wracking, but there are ways to prepare…thereby lessening the chance of disaster.
- Prep –Once you know its game-on, do some homework. Ask her what questions to avoid at all costs and find out things there might be common ground on for discussion points. Also, find out the topics that are absolutely off-limits beyond politics and religion.
- Conversation –Inevitably, there will come the moments of awkward silences. This is a good time to throw out that compliment you’ve been hiding in your back pocket. Excusing yourself for a composure-building bathroom break is a good play, as well. Keeping yourself comfortable enough to go with the flow is key.
- Behavior –Everything you do is being watched. So, make sure you and your partner have a clear understanding of how to, and how not to, behave with each other when you have a genetically-linked audience. Oh, and even if she starts it, resist the urge to bone on all the coats stacked on the bed in the spare room.
- Gifts –Bringing a gift is a good move…just make sure you know what they like as well as you can beforehand. If they’re on the wagon, booze is a bad move. Is there a nut allergy? Do snow globes trigger bad memories? Do your recon on this.
- Bouncing Back –Sometimes, things just won’t go your way. The key is bouncing back. If you drink too much, don’t drink at all next time you’re around them. If you say something in appropriate, own it, apologize, and be more respectful next time. Mistakes happen. Don’t let them fluster you.
Read the full article at Ask Men