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How to Improve Relationships with a Harmful Mother-in-Law: 5 Proven Methods
28.04.2024 04:00
Updated: 12.05.2024 23:58
Conflicts with mother-in-law are not uncommon. How to deal with them?
If your mother-in-law is “harmful”, it can be difficult to find a common language.
However, the problem should definitely not be ignored. Therefore, it is worth remembering several ways that will help improve relations with a harmful mother-in-law.
Understanding the Roots of the Problem
The first step to solving the problem is to understand it. Sometimes your mother-in-law's behavior may be a result of her own stress or unpleasant experiences. It is important to find out what is behind her behavior before jumping to conclusions.
Of course, it is not easy to understand the real reason for negative behavior, but you should definitely strive for it. It is bad if such behavior has been developing for years and has become the norm. In this case, there is no reason, only the result.
Setting boundaries
Sometimes the problem is that the mother-in-law feels too free in the family. In such cases, it is important to clearly define the boundaries of your space and personal life, while maintaining respect and goodwill.
The mother-in-law must understand that she cannot impose her own habits and behavior.
Common interests
You can also try to find common topics for discussion or activities that can bring you together.
It could be something as simple as going for walks together or even having common hobbies. Common interests can be the first step to building a relationship.
And here it is the woman who must be active.
A simple example: if your mother-in-law likes to sew clothes, you can ask her for a master class. Common interests can "melt" even long-term conflicts.
Respect and tolerance
The key to building a relationship with your mother-in-law is respect. It is important to remember that she is part of the family, no matter how much you don't want to say it, but she is.
Tolerance plays an important role, because not all problems are solved instantly, and sometimes it takes time for relationships to improve.
Help from specialists
Sometimes the situation requires the intervention of a professional. It is not always possible to find a common language and understanding on your own.
In this case, you should confidently seek help from specialists.
Of course, it won’t be easy to convince your mother-in-law of such a necessity, but in certain situations there are no other options.
Earlier we talked about how to stop losing your temper during conflicts.
