How To Cope With Free Gifts With Purchase: Your In-Laws

I haven't spoken to the mother-in-law for six months now ... apparently, it's rude to interrupt.”chuckled one of my clients recently. The focus is mothers-in-law as we prepare for Mother’s Day on 10 May in case you need to prepare!  I have a FREE thoughtful gift idea so read on for access to that one.

Not just the outlaws but extended family and friends, too and  I’m quite sure there are a few relieved people that have found social distancing quite beneficial?

Starry-eyed romantics are often caught unaware after slipping into the love vortex. Clarity is skewed, thanks to oxytocin: the love neurochemical that helps us pair up. Many seal their commitment with a kiss and a ring, only to realise down the marital track there's a whole new group of influencers behind their beloved.

There's Uncle Bert who dropped in unannounced, way too often and your spouse seems incredibly nonplussed. How about your partner's best friend you've never really gelled with from the start? Ever heard of that inappropriate sister-in-law who reveals way too much about your partner's ex? Do you have a father-in-law who unashamedly runs a dictatorship around the money that you've earned? Speaking of your hard-earned coin, how are your stepchildren syphoning that out of your lifestyle? ​

Then there's the wedding day - so many expectations for the most wonderful, memorable celebration. It's too often tainted by the bitter sadness of those family members who weren't included enough or managed to bustle their way in with far too much influence. This rather excruciating list could go on.

There are so many challenges when it comes to the "free with purchase” extended family and friends. In my experience, the greatest conflict arises when you feel your partner prioritises them over you.

Relationships become strained during those times you longed for your partner to "have your back”. When you feel as if you need them to protect and nurture you from the opinions or bizarre behaviours of others.

When I say culture, you and your spouse could have been raised in the same street of Buderim and still experience extreme family cultural differences, as if one of you was from Saudi Arabia and the other Tasmania.

What to do?
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Watch this space next week when I outline strategies and healthy boundaries around the relationships of partners' family and friends. Oh, and don’t forget to jump online to ensure your Mother In Law’s gift is delivered on time since you might be able to use it’s “against the law” to visit her. For those like me who lucked-in with theirs, make sure you creatively thank them for producing your fine spouse!

Here's my thoughtful gift idea FREE for you to download. It's a beautiful list of ideas to deepen your knowledge of your Mum - "Legacy of Love Questions for Mother's Day". 


Joanne Wilson is a neuropsychotherapist, relationship specialist, workshop facilitator and guest speaker. Tune into radio Salt106.5 each Friday morning for her co-host of the Morning Wakeup. Don’t miss more on these articles in her “Is This Love” Podcast and download your FREE relationship resources at www.relationshiprejuvenator.com