Dr. Nancy Berns of Psychology Today — and the author of Closure: The Rush to End Grief and What It Costs Us — wrote a great article with tips on how to get through this crazy election season without losing all your friends and family.
Healthy politics involves compromise. The election has poured scorn on such an idea https://t.co/IuP8y0oiOx pic.twitter.com/uMtoAS05By
— The Economist (@TheEconomist) October 14, 2016
It is hard to talk about politics without losing friends. Here are 7 ways to survive this election and keep your sanity intact:
1. Take Social Media Breaks
Take some time off from your Facebook feed for your own sanity. If you are constantly reading the news and political posts, you may get burned out on it.
2. Be Respectful
When talking about some of the divisive topics in this election, make sure you are still being respectful of the other person when sharing your beliefs. You are not likely to change someone’s mind; sometimes, you just need to pick your battles.
3. Don’t Make Your Political Affiliations Your Identity
Yes, your belief system is a part of who you are, but your political leanings are not everything you are. Reflect on who you are outside of your party. Look at other people’s views outside of their political party. Everyone has different experiences that shape who they are and what they believe.
4. Pick Your Battles
Don’t lose a relationship over a political argument. Friends and family are important. You may just need to pick and choose who you talk to about your political beliefs. Be patient, and try to find a middle ground.
5. Listen To Conflicting Views
Listen to your relatives’ conflicting views. You may be able to empathize with what they believe even if you don’t agree. Your older relatives may not be quite as progressive. Keep their age in mind when talking about politics with an older person.
6. Choose Your Family Over Political Beliefs
Dr. Berns said:
“If you have a political difference with someone close to you, remember that your relationship is more important than your choice in politicians. In hindsight, you might both see things differently anyway. If you believe that the person’s heart is in the right place, even if their thinking seems wrong to you, be patient. Over time, you may find more middle ground.”
7. Go Beyond Just The Voting Box
Try and find ways to connect with people who have different party affiliations. Work together on a project. Invite them to dinner, and discuss your views. Make your voice heard by voting.
Thanks again to Dr. Nancy Berns for pulling this great info together. Check out her book, Closure: The Rush to End Grief and What It Costs Us.
Here is a video about talking about politics:
Featured image via Twitter.
