LIFE

Family is forever.

You might not have chosen them (or the fights you have with them over the bathroom...), but your family is yours whether you like it or not. Aka: You're stuck with them. Everyone fights sometimes, and living together can really build tension in the household. Without the ability of ‘getting a break’ from one another, arguments can break out easily at almost any time. Below you can find some tips for getting along with your fam when there's a maj fight brewing.

Forgive, forgive, forgive
No one is perfect. Sometimes we make mistakes and wish we could go back in time and take something back. Unfortunately, we can’t (how has someone not invented that yet?), so we have to be able to look past things *and* hope that your sibs can do the same when you steal the remote or beat them at video games.

Don’t resort to using words like ‘hate’
Words can hurt. Sometimes, in the heat of the moment, you might feel as if those powerful words describe how you feel. But odds are that once you take a minute to think things through, you'll realize you don't actually feel that way about your big bro just because he got to choose the board game at family game night.

Breathe!
Count to five (or however many seconds it’ll take to calm down) when they say something that makes you want to explode. This will prevent snap reactions and harsh words, and will calm down the whole situation in general. Once you breathe, give them a cool response and, if you feel the sitch heating up again, just walk away.

Fill up your schedule
Clubs, sports and time with friends will all fill up your time. A busier schedule = less time at home, which also can mean less arguments with your family. Spending time outside of the house can be the key to a happy and balanced life. 

Remind yourself how *important* family is
You only get one family. Family is there for you when all else fails, so while it's OK to bicker every now and then, you should cherish yours. Realize how lucky you are, and let them know how much you love them each and every day.

How do you get through tough times with your family? Tell us below!

by Ellie Pesetsky | 9/26/2017