The first Christmas at... your in-laws
And everything you shouldn't do there

Breathe in, breathe out. It's great, this new love, but suddenly it's almost Christmas and the stress spots appear on your neck. There's a first time for everything. Also for the Christmas dinner at your in-laws. Don't do this and everything will be just fine. Really.

Getting drunk

Sounds easy and yet it sometimes goes wrong. Especially at Christmas when you sit at the table for a long time and those glasses of wine follow each other in quick succession. A few sips for the nerves: okay, but the moment you start rambling about your ecstasy summer, it's actually already too late, right? Exactly. Remember as a mantra: wine and water. Wine and water, wine and wa...

Sitting on your phone

A lot of people do this in awkward situations. Just grab that phone and text that friend, scroll through feverish emails or go on social media. Don't do it. Not only does your new ‘family’ get the idea that you're not comfortable, but you also create disinterest towards your tablemates.

Starting about these topics...

Everything around politics, religion, or sex. The only thing being discussed this Christmas is the turkey, capiche? No discussion topics.

Playing the exaggerated version of yourself

You know exactly which version I'm talking about: the one where there might be a ‘little white lie’ to present yourself better. Unnecessary, don't do it. The mistake of pretending can also upset your partner. If your partner has accepted you as you are, that should also be enough for his or her parents.

Trying to be too funny

Before you know it, those inappropriate, sexual, or radical jokes are flying across the table. No matter how much humor you have, save the good jokes for home. Parents always want a caring and empathetic partner for their son or daughter. If you come out with crude jokes right away, you also show poor judgment.

Letting them clear the table

No matter what happens: don't stay at the table after eating while the rest is cleaning up. Seems logical to me. Always get up and ask if you can help.

Talking about money

Complimenting your in-laws on their beautiful house is one thing, but talking about money directly is a no-go, you understand that. You'll quickly be considered rude.

Dressing sloppily

Lovely, that out of bed look, but not at the first meeting. If you make an effort, you immediately show that you want to meet them and that you respect them enough to take care of your appearance.

Only talking about yourself

Although your partner's parents probably want to get to know you very much, they don't want to listen to your life story all evening. Try to find a balance in the conversation and show interest in getting to know them as well. Listen and ask. Amen.

Being the quiet one

Of course, it's exciting, maybe even a bit intimidating, that first Christmas, but not talking at all is definitely not an option. Be polite, but actively participate in the conversation where possible.

So, and no stress at all, right? Everything will be just fine. Next year you can laugh about it. Merry Christmas!

Source: Huffington Post