Rowing smoothly down the blissful stream of married life in a desi setup has much to do with relationship kinetics between you and your mother-in-law. Starting things off on the right note will help you a lot in the long run if you two get to bond and it’s not easy to please your saasu maa. Things like being respectful, kind and empathetic are a prerequisite for every relation but being armed with exceptional small talk ammunition will prove very beneficial in building a relationship with your mother-in-law.
When you are newly married, you’re kinda tippy toeing on egg shells because you are trying to figure out what would work in your favour when it comes to your mother-in-law. So, here are some icebreaker ideas that can help you kick start a conversation with your MIL.
A word of advice: Keep stereotypes at bay and have a minimum of expectations.
LEARN ABOUT HER
Showing what you have experienced in life and knowing what are the experiences of your mother-in-law on several fronts is a great way to learn about each other. No family is perfect, so you need to know how to internalize the way they act with or around you. She will have her own history, passions and interests so ask her about her.
WATCH TV WITH HER
Everybody has a favorite show or a TV series. Find out one your mother-in-law likes and VIOLA a cool topic for kicking into a conversation is there.
Additionally, if you have a great sense of humor you can rely on it for keeping things on a friendly note with your in-laws. Besides, it will help you digest certain gestures and comments and react to these subtly. PS: If they are die hard fans of SRK or Salman Khan, learn to know how to maneuver in to sharing your interest as well.
LEARN HER FAVOURITE FAMILY RECIPE
We’re sure that your MIL has a favourite recipe that she likes to prepare for the family on special occasions. If she has one, she’ll start talking about it, show interest that you’d like to learn it as well. This will surely strike a chord with her.
YOUR PARTNER’S CHILDHOOD
The most fun thing perhaps is to uncover the things your partner did as a child. Going through old family pics and videos will give you a sneak peek of their family life and can serve as an amazing bonding opportunity.
SHOPPING AND SPA DAYS
Who does not love shopping on a budget? Share the information you have for online sales or the stores that offer great value for money. Had they liked your options you will be hot their ultimate favorite person. This might take you shopping next time.
Planning a spa day is also an other fun idea. Getting pedicures whilst chatting away your worries without any emotional burdens is a great opportunity.
SEEK HER ADVICE
Another good way to bond with your MIL is to take her advice on small matters. You don’t have to pour all your excitement and fears on her but at least this way she will feel that you are putting your trust in her as someone with more life experiences and therefore are seeking guidance.
Also, if you’r a new mom and wished for things that someone had told you, click here.