<\/span><\/h2>\nWho doesn\u2019t know him\u2014that uncle who just knows everything better. Whether it\u2019s raising kids, the latest technology, or cooking, this uncle just has to voice his opinion or show off his knowledge all the time. Comments like \u201cWell, I would have seasoned that roast quite differently\u201d or \u201cDid you know that 73% of people prefer goose legs?\u201d are par for the course with him.
<\/strong><\/p>\nThe problem:<\/strong> He thinks he knows everything better\u2014or at least thinks he does. The know-it-all uncle wants to have a say in every decision. Unfortunately, though, he doesn\u2019t want to take responsibility himself\u2014for example, by preparing the Christmas dinner himself.
<\/strong><\/p>\nThe strategy:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Involving<\/strong> Themin Small Tasks:<\/strong> It can help to give the know-it-all a task where they can showcase their \u201cexpertise,\u201d but one that ultimately doesn\u2019t play a decisive role. For example: \u201cCould you please fold the napkins? That requires an eye for detail!\u201d<\/li>\n
- Disarm them with facts:<\/strong> With a little humor, quick wit, or good preparation, you can easily disarm the know-it-all\u2014especially when they cite statistics\u2014for example, by saying: \u201cUncle Klaus, 100% of all studies show that this pudding tastes great!\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>
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<\/span>2. the curious aunt or the stakeholder without limits<\/span><\/h2>\nThe nosy aunt also interferes in everything. However, she tends to do this by asking nosy, critical questions that don't really concern her, don't contribute to the topic or are extremely unpleasant. With questions like \"So, when are you getting married and when are you having children? You're not getting any younger, are you?\" to \"Why don't you eat dessert? Are you on a diet?\" she can drive anyone up the wall and really ruin Christmas for one or two people.<\/p>\n
The problem:<\/strong> the nosy aunt has no fear of contact and asks questions that would be described as \"scope creep\" in project management - she constantly broadens the focus, causing discomfort and difficulties.<\/p>\nThe strategy:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Setting Boundaries Politely:<\/strong> Respond charmingly but firmly. \u201cAunt Gerda, I\u2019m currently working on a really exciting project, but I won\u2019t reveal any details until next year!\u201d<\/li>\n
- Redirect:<\/strong> Redirect her curiosity. Often, the curious aunt is just as curious about her own life. That means she has plenty to share about her own plans or stories. So feel free to ask what she\u2019s planning, or ask about interesting events from the past. If that\u2019s not enough: I\u2019m sure the nosy aunt has plenty to say about her neighbors.<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>
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<\/span>3. the critical brother-in-law or the nagging stakeholder<\/span><\/h2>\nYou can't really please the critical brother-in-law. He finds fault with everything, but really everything. That's why he likes to comment on Christmas dinner with statements such as \"Why isn't there a vegan alternative here?\" or \"Well, in my family we do it completely differently.\"<\/p>\n
The problem:<\/strong> He doesn't seem to like anything and offers criticism without being constructive. His motto: \"It could always be better.\"<\/p>\nThe strategy:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Nip criticism in the bud:<\/strong> Why not start the Christmas dinner with a humorous opening remark, such as: \u201cAnd before anyone asks: No, the goose isn\u2019t certified organic, but it still tastes great!\u201d<\/li>\n
- Offer to involve<\/strong> him:<\/strong> Ask him in advance for his suggestions. People who take on responsibility are less likely to complain. Maybe he\u2019ll even be happy to bring his famous vegan casserole.<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>
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