It's time for family, friends and celebrations during the holidays.If the conversation turns political, fun times can be tense.There are some guidelines you can follow to maintain the holiday spirit.Look for ways to diffuse tension and be respectful and polite.You can either leave early or stay home to avoid a fight if all else fails.Despite the political chatter, you can still have a happy holiday season.
Step 1: You should be open-minded.
Don't come to a family dinner with preconceived notions.It doesn't mean you know how your Aunt Sally will act after the election.If you go into a situation expecting tension and negative vibes, you will get it.There is a friendly hello for everyone when you walk in.Don't assume Aunt Sally is trying to pick a fight with you if she brings up politics.Wait to hear how the conversation goes.
Step 2: You should establish your boundaries.
Think about your comfort level before you go to a gathering.Is it okay to talk politics?Do you want to avoid certain topics?You can set boundaries for yourself and communicate them to your friends and family.It is possible to say, "My blood pressure starts to rise after about 10 minutes of election talk, so I will be heading to watch football if the conversation goes much longer than that."Talking about immigration is personal to me.When there are fewer people around, could we save that discussion?
Step 3: Don't argue.
You don't have to get into a fight to talk politics.You must not allow yourself to be drawn into an argument.Try saying, "Well, I think we'll have to agree to disagree on this one."Don't ask someone if they want to take a break.If you want to avoid an argument, you should not ask them aggressive questions about their stance.Don't allow someone else to question you.You can always keep your thoughts and opinions to yourself if you're worried about an argument.
Step 4: Listen to the other person.
Give the other person a chance to talk when you are talking politics.It is possible to get on your soapbox about an issue that is important to you.Don't get carried away.Get others involved by saying, "I guess I made my point clear."Show that you are listening by nodding your head and maintaining eye contact.You can ask questions.Say, "I have never heard that theory about climate change."Where did you hear that information?
Step 5: Don't be disrespectful.
It is important to be courteous during political conversations.Don't say bad things about the other person's character.Don't make hostile gestures such as pointing your finger at someone's face and keep your voice down.If someone makes you feel bad, say, "I'm happy to keep talking to you, but if we could keep things civil, I'd really appreciate it."
Step 6: Limit the amount of alcohol you consume.
Alcohol has been used to argue about politics.If the topic is going to come up, limit yourself to a glass or two of wine.When you talk about sensitive subjects, you want to be collected and calm.It might be a good idea not to talk about the election results if you notice that Cousin Connie has been hitting the eggnog hard.
Step 7: It should be kid friendly.
Kids will be present at many gatherings.It is okay to discuss politics at the dinner table, but remember that they are listening.Don't talk about topics in a graphic way.You don't have to detail the images you saw from the mass-shooting.Encourage others to be child-friendly.Try, "Hey, Bill, I know what you're trying to say, but could you avoid using language like that in front of my kids?"Thank you.
Step 8: Something positive to say is what you should look for.
If a debate about politics is heating up, remind yourself and others to say something positive.If you find yourself yelling about changes to women's health care, take a deep breath and rethink the situation.You could say, "I guess we're all upset about this issue."We live in a country where we can peacefully protest.If your uncle is worried that immigration reform will hurt his employees, try saying, "That's a tough problem."I have a good immigration attorney.Let's call her tomorrow and see if she can help.
Step 9: Don't make a joke.
A good way to diffuse tension is with laughter.If you can see someone getting angry, try to make them laugh.You can tell them that they're getting pretty upset.If your cousin is upset by the election results, you could say, at least you are in good company.I don't think Hillary is having much fun right now.
Step 10: The subject can be changed.
It is probably time to switch topics if you can't see a way to lighten the tone.Say, "Hey everyone, let's relax for a bit."If you have to, you can make an awkward transition and say something like, "How about those Cubbies!"
Step 11: Walk away.
It is okay to leave the room and talk if nothing works.There will be a lot of debates about health care.Don't let politics get in the way of seeing your friends in a different state.A group of people are having a conversation.Excusing yourself to the bathroom is one way to get away from a tense situation.
Step 12: You should ask for the guest list.
If you are worried about potential conflicts, you can try to find out who else is at the gathering.You don't have to make a big deal out of asking who else is coming; you can keep it casual.It sounds like your holiday party will be fun.If necessary, you can make it more specific.You and Brian are likely to argue.If you are worried that you won't be able to have a good time, you can ask the host, "Do you know if Brian's coming?"
Step 13: Speak to the person in charge.
If your inner circle is known for getting into heated debates, you might be hesitant about going to a holiday party.Ask if everyone is willing to keep the conversations light and fun this year, if you don't feel up for tense discussions.The host can help you make this request.Kate is organizing Friendsgiving this year.Ask her if she would mind saying, "Let's embrace the holiday spirit and leave politics at the door just this once."Don't forget to come over for dinner at 5 p.m.
Step 14: The holiday party should be kept out of politics.
It is best not to talk about politics at work.It's possible that you strain your relationship with a co-worker or your boss.Politics can detract from the professional atmosphere of the workplace.Extending the rule to the office holiday party is a good idea.You don't want to have tension on Monday morning because you're all having fun.If you are gathered around the punch bowl, someone will say, "Can you believe those Trump tweets this morning?"Did you get to try the shrimp cocktail?It is delicious!
Step 15: Don't interact with people that are difficult.
You would like to engage in constructive debates and feel very passionately about politics.It is not possible sometimes.You might not be willing to listen to your conservative friend's opinions if you're really liberal.It is a good idea to take a break during the holiday season.If you know you will end up in an argument, decline the invitations.If you do attend, talk to a neutral person.If you have to, please excuse me from your mom's holiday party this year.I can not deal with my cousin Beth.Pick up the pies from the bakery and I will help you out.