Does the holiday season bring memories of controversial conversations, family feuds, or remorseful repasts? Is the dinnertime chat more heated than the candied yams? Do you want to stuff a sock in your sibling’s teeth instead of sausage and sage in your turkey? If so, you might want to consider studying the CHECK® system for handling difficult discussions before you head to Grandma’s house.
Expectations are high during the season. We all want a Norman Rockwell kind of holiday. But too much togetherness can bring out the worst in many people. Emotions run high and are often uncontrolled.
The CHECK® system is a 5 step system for handling difficult discussions. (And many discussions become difficult during the holidays.) The third step is the E in CHECK®. E stands for Emotions.
Emotions seem to reach a peak when alcohol comes into play. Beaujolais and butter rum eggnog may be a tradition during holiday meals, but it is wise to keep a cork in the bottle, or your mouth, if you want to end the day with relationships in tact.
Know when to quit talking. Let the win-lose battles take place between the Lions and the Patriots, not Uncle Larry and Aunt Patrice. Save your mouth for eating!
Happy Thanksgiving!