How to be a Dream Bride for Your In-Laws and Behave Correctly
Engaging with your in-laws is one of the most challenging relationships for women after marriage. If this connection is not established properly, it can lead to conflicts in married life and make it uncomfortable. Cultural differences and habits that conflict with your own family can cause these issues.
If you don’t know the correct way to deal with your in-laws, especially your mother-in-law, read this section ofSelMagzfor guidance.
General Rules for Interacting with Your In-Laws
Keep Your Financial Matters Private
Many in-law families try to assist their child or daughter-in-law financially. However, if they interfere in how the couple spends, saves money, or their monthly income continuously, it can be wiser for the couple to borrow money from others if needed and keep certain aspects of their life private from their in-laws.
Do Not Leave Your Child’s Care to Your In-Laws
Your in-laws are your child’s grandparents, not caregivers. Even if they seem capable, do not leave your child in their care as this can lead to significant issues. They might impose their personal choices on your child-rearing practices, creating a confusing situation with conflicting parental influences.
How to Behave with Your In-Laws
Stay Calm with Your Mother-in-Law’s Interferences
Many women find it hard to connect with their mother-in-law or sister-in-law due to jealousy. Understand that much of a mother-in-law’s interference stems from her love for her child and concern about how you treat him. She may ask everyday questions about meals and insist on helping with laundry just for peace of mind.
In such cases, the best approach is to remain calm, let her do what she wants, and thank her, since you are the one who sees your husband at home every night.
Set Clear Boundaries with Your In-Laws
Communicating with your mother-in-law can be challenging. Establishing clear boundaries helps. Never criticize your spouse in front of their family, as parents are generally aware of their children’s flaws and it is unnecessary to remind them.
If your spouse has issues, discuss them with friends or write them down instead of mentioning them to your mother-in-law, as what you share may stick with her even after resolving the issues.
Do Not Interfere in Your Spouse’s Relationship with Their Family
Stay out of your spouse’s discussions with their family and don’t react to their arguments. Keeping yourself occupied can help maintain your respect.
How to Treat Your In-Laws
Communicate Clearly and Directly
If you face problems or disagreements, prioritize direct communication about them without hiding the details.
Understand Your In-Laws’ Character
When two people marry, their families become intertwined. As a bride, it’s crucial to understand your father-in-law and mother-in-law’s character and motivations, allowing you to avoid actions that irritate them and accept some of their behaviors without resentment. Remember, everyone has flaws, and it’s no different with your in-laws.
Communicate Your Boundaries
When conflicts arise, know what could happen and how to respond to maintain respect and warmth between you. Instead of complaining to your spouse, talk directly to their family about your expectations. Complaining about your spouse can damage not only your relationship with their family but also with your spouse.
Rules for Interacting with Your In-Laws
Validate Their Words
Maintain a respectful distance with your mother-in-law and address issues to prevent small problems from escalating. Stay calm, listen to them fully, and ensure your responses are affirmations, keeping discussions short unless you truly disagree.
