Building a perfect relationship with your in-laws

Yes! you are married to your husband, but in the African culture, you marry the man and his family.

You In-laws are a group of people that wield so much influence in the marriage.

Yes! you are married to your husband, but in the African culture, you marry the man and his family.

That does not mean that you should allow them trample on you or disrespect your desires and wishes.

1. Participate in Family Functions: Socialise with them and help organise social events. Do not avoid intentionally, any family event, especially when you are invited. They might take it as an insult.

2. No competitions: Do not try to go head to head in competition with your in-laws. It is not right to want to prove a point whenever they are around or they speak of their achievements.

3. Don’t report your Spouse to your in-laws: Your in-laws might likely be offended by your complaints. Always talk positively about your spouse. Compliment your in-laws on how well they brought their son or daughter up.

4. Learn and Accommodate their traditions: You cannot choose to be on your own. If your family has a culture, show interest by asking questions and learning about it. Learning about your spouse’s traditions is important. You don’t have to embrace them all as your own.

5. Set Healthy Boundaries: Talk to your spouse about any boundary to be set. Especially, when his or her parents come to visit.