Without a doubt, the holidays bring about reunions with family and friends we haven’t seen for quite a bit of time. Most of that can be pleasant. But, every now and then, there will surely be someone who feels they can ask uncomfortable questions they’re curious to know the answers to. Remember, just because you’re family doesn’t mean you have to give up your privacy. Here are 5 questions you might hear at your holiday parties – and how to avoid answering them. Good luck!
5 Questions You Don’t Have to Answer at Holiday Parties
1. “You’ve been single for a while now. Why don’t you let me set you up?” This comment usually comes from genuine concern rather than any desire to be hurtful. Still, you don’t have to give in to everyone’s inquiries about your love life. Try saying, “Thanks, but I’m really enjoying myself right now.” Or, “I really appreciate your concern, but I’m really having the best time on my own.”
2. “Have you put on weight?” Some people are quick to point out a few holiday pounds. You can easily say to this, “Well, it’s the holidays, so all that delicious food may have gotten the better of me.” Or you can rebuttle and say, “Haven’t we all? It’s the holidays!” And laugh while finding someone else to talk to.
3. “How’s work? Have you gotten promoted yet?” Work topics tend to feel a little less personal, which is why so many people go that route. But there’s no need to explain your work trajectory. You can say, “Work’s great. How have you been?” and just turn the conversation around. Changing the focus back to the other person usually works quite nicely.
4. “When’s that next baby coming?” The dreaded baby question usually comes from overly eager family and friends. If you’re not ready to discuss that yet, you can just simply say so. Or field it with a quick, “Oh, we’ll see…” and bring up a different topic. There’s no need to give anyone any specific details about such a sensitive topic.
5. “Did you get some work done? You look a little different.” – Whether or not you want to disclose this kind of information is completely up to you. But if you don’t feel comfortable divulging that info, you shouldn’t have to. Don’t feel pressured to spill any details you don’t want to share. You can answer instead by saying, “Oh, really?” and changing the topic. Or saying, “Did you?” They’ll realize they’ve gone too far and likely change the conversation or exit it altogether.
The most important thing to remember is that sometimes people don’t realize that the nature of their questions may be a little invasive. People have different boundaries and limits. If you aren’t comfortable with someone else’s inquisitive nature, don’t feel compelled to cave in just because they’re pressing you for an answer.
