There’s no doubt that Christmastime is the most wonderful time of the year. Spending the holidays with your family is sure to be a time of laughter, presents, cheer and a few festive beers.
As a young person, you’re likely used to anyone older than you giving their input on what you should be doing and/or how you should be living your life.
As this is already nearly intolerable from one person, the holidays could start to feel like an ambush. Of course, your family just wants the best for you and to see you succeed… But in the process they might drive you a little crazy.There are a few basics you’re definitely going to be asked about. As someone who seems to never have it figured out, I’ve learned how to successfully navigate these questions with ease. No matter whether you’re single, taken, graduated, graduating soon, living it up in your sorority house, whatever, I’ve listed my top ways to GTFO of any buzzkill worthy situation.
Firstly, always have a plate of food or beverage in hand. Preferably alcoholic (to maintain your cheerful morale.) The trick here is to keep the glass or plate half empty (like the outlook of your life in the worrying eyes of your family.) This will serve as your escape plan to any conversation that begins to go south.
Another the trick is to always end on a positive note; “Well I just quit my job and I’m living at home, BUT I’ve been talking to this person about a great opportunity.” There’s no need to elaborate and worry your Grammie, just stick to the basics.
When They Ask You About Your Love Life
If you’re single prepare to answer these types of questions… often. Most families love to remind you you’re getting older (like 23 is old or something…) and remind you of your cousin Jenny whose wedding is next summer. For all the single, not Cousin Jenny’s– don’t take it too personal. What I like to do is tell something a little different to everyone, that way I don’t keep saying the same thing over and over again. Don’t be afraid to utilize the empty cup trick during these conversations.
If you’re in a relationship and your honey is tag teaming the party with you, don’t leave them for the wolves! But also, don’t be one of those weird couples always making out in the corner.
If you’re engaged, don’t expect to talk of anything but the wedding and plans for it. Lucky for you, you’re probably (hopefully) excited about it.
When They Ask How Your Grades Are
This is an easy one. The answer is always “They’re good! I just had all of my finals and I feel really confident with how I did.” And leave it at that. Isn’t it time for another mini wiener anyway?
When They Ask You What You’re Doing With Your Life
Commonly disguised as, “So what are you doing now?” Any person in college, especially graduating seniors, and recent grads, should expect this. Unless you’re doing well by normal means of American society, aka working a 9-5 or going to grad school, or your family is abnormally open-minded, they’re likely going to believe they have a better idea for you.
Advice is meant to be heard but not always taken. Take everything with a grain of salt.
When They Question Your Decisions
If I had a dollar for every time someone gave me a crooked look upon hearing I studied Journalism, I could buy my own plane and fly my Bachelor’s degree and I to Fiji.
You’re the only person who can live your life (shocker, right?) so take risks when you want to, while you’re still young and have the energy to chase your dreams. Go travel abroad if you can afford it, and if you can’t, find another way to see the world. Do something because you want to do it, not because it’s what you think you should be doing. No one truly expects you to have anything together, anyway.
And remember that empty cup trick!
(Feature Photo via Fanpop)