My Jewish Coach Eases Tension at Your Thanksgiving Table

Worried about Thanksgiving tension? Don't be.

Deborah Grayson Riegel, author of Oy Vey! Isn't a Strategy, has one great question that will help defuse family tension brought on by close holiday contact.

"And what else?"

When someone is angry, uncomfortable, or upset, it may be one's instinct to shut down the conversation before it gets out of control. Riegel explains that this may not be the best option for both sides. 

"I recognize that shutting someone down or cutting them off before they've had a chance to express what they really, truly and deeply need to will likely lead both of us right back here again."

Asking "and what else" helps the other person really say what is on their mind and in their heart and gives them the opportunity to say what they need to say, making you open and compassionate to their needs. 

To read the full article, click here.

Deborah Grayson Riegel is the author of 'Oy Vey! It's a Strategy'. More of her sage yet down to earth advice was recently featured in Women's Health Magazine! For more from our favorite Jewish coach visit her site: http://myjewishcoach.com