Meeting your partner’s family is such a big step for your relationship because that means that you are both serious, and your partner wants to see if you would be a great addition to the family. You might have these “meet the family jitters” because you want them to like you and make them see that you are a great match to their child. However, sometimes you might not like their family as much as they like you. For your partner’s sake, you want the feelings to be mutual, but then again, you don’t know how to fake it, and you can’t just avoid them forever! Well, need not to worry because we are here to save you! In this article, we will list down things you can do when you do not like your partner’s family.
1. Immediately Open Up To Your Partner About It
Yes, we are aware that you may be afraid to hurt your partner's feelings. However, if you don't like his family, it needs to be discussed right away. You must be honest with them about this while it's still early for them to adequately explain on their behalf as to why they happen to be like that. Maybe they can have time to strategize on how you can develop mutual positive feelings towards his family.
2. Lay Out Some Boundaries
By immediately talking to your significant other about your issues or feelings, you can help them plan for the future better. This will also allow you to discuss boundaries. Perhaps you can tell your partner how often you would be comfortable seeing their family. Maybe even inform him how long it may take for you to warm up to them.
3. Try To Get To Know The Family Culture
Maybe the reason why you do not like your partner’s family is that you cannot relate to their family’s culture. You are probably used to a different kind of family environment; that is why their family seems so foreign to you. Every family is raised with unique traditions, thus the difference in various family cultures. Just like how you would adapt to the culture of a foreign country that you visited, you may be able to adopt the same strategy towards liking their family.
4. Stay Positive
If the strategy above won’t work for you, then you should still show a positive attitude towards your partner’s family. This will not only be appreciated by the family, but your partner will significantly enjoy this act. Establishing a positive attitude towards their family will not only increase their feelings of fondness towards you, but it will also reduce the chances of a family feud - which can get ugly and toxic. And maybe the saying, “fake it ‘til you make it,” will work for you!
5. Don’t Ever Make Your Partner Choose Between Them Or You
Giving your partner an ultimatum between you and their family is something you should never do. This could end your relationship or cause a huge fight. Blood is thicker than water, so your partner will never give up their family. Especially when their family is something they hold dear to their heart. It might also end in a toxic relationship where they will always resent you.