How to Avoid Disputes This Christmas
Christmas is a hectic time for everybody, there’s so much to organise, do and buy, it’s no surprise that it’s the most stressful time of year for a lot of people. Pressures that have built up in the run-up to Christmas often come to a head when couples and families spend lots of time together.
We hope that these six tips will help you and your family avoid disputes and have a peaceful Christmas instead:
1. Limit your spending
Financial issues are a common cause of arguments among couples and with each of us planning to spend an average of £821 on Christmas (according to the results of a YouGov poll published on December 3rd), household finances are often put under immense strain.
To avoid any disputes and unexpected credit card bills, write down everything you need to buy and work out what you can realistically afford to spend. Plan when and where you can buy everything, don’t leave it to the last minute, then stay within your budget.
2. Don’t drink too much
Everyone likes to relax and let their hair down at Christmas (even solicitors!) but alcohol is another trigger for arguments so keep an eye on how many glasses of wine you’ve had and try not to let the alcohol do the talking.
3. Communicate
Lots of couples find it difficult to communicate properly so you’re not alone if this is a problem for you. Try to communicate your needs, don’t assume that even those closest to you can read your mind.
Our aim is to help people resolve disputes and we find that the best way to do this is through communication, which is why we often recommend relationship counselling to couples.
4. Keep things in perspective
Sometimes things can seem really important at the time, we get angry and argue, then wonder what all the fuss was about. Try not to let a couple of glasses of champagne and a small disagreement over which movie to watch become a much bigger argument.
6. Walk away
It’s better to walk away from an argument than to vent when you’re angry and have a blazing row. If there’s still an issue that needs tackling it’s much better to do it when everyone has calmed down and you can talk to each other respectfully.
We hope you have a wonderful Happy Christmas and manage to avoid any family disputes. If you do have a difficult time remember that it’s a stressful time for lots of people. Try not to make any rash decisions and if you need to, you may find speaking to a solicitor helps you work out what’s right for you and your relationship.