Relationships Before Politics

With the highly charged election drawing near and political polarization at an all-time high, it’s easy to find ourselves at odds with others, even those we care about and love. Tensions can easily start to rise.

The American Psychological Association offers a number of tips on how to maintain calm when politics collide. Sometimes you have to accept that no matter how hard you try, you won’t be able to change someone else's opinion. It can also help to have a goal in mind before any heated discussions start. This can go a long way toward easing tension. Other strategies include being proactive and steering away from politics during family get togethers and remembering that it’s okay not to agree on everything. 

And don’t forget to breathe.

“As [the authors] suggest, a few deep breaths, and also reminding yourself to relax the tension you are holding in your muscles, can really help,” says Happier Living’s Dr. Steven Newman. “None of us can change that there are conflicts in the world, but at least we can calm the tension within ourselves.”

Politics are only one piece of who people are, says Dr. Newman. 

“It seems so important to keep in mind that there is much more to all of us, and to the relationships we hold dear, than our political differences.”

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