Seasonal Speaking & Socializing Stress? Listen…
There’s a wonderful line in the musical, Hamilton first sung by the character Aaron Burr: “Talk less, smile more. Don't let them know what you're against or what you're for.” This may seem a bit exaggerated for a holiday get-together with your family, but it’s a good guideline for anyone facing anxiety around socializing -- especially after the COVID holiday blackout of 2020.
People who have social anxiety -- or who are just out of practice, struggling with situations around the holidays can glean some advice from Lin Manuel-Miranda. “Talk less.” Sure, you can smile, but also, listen and pivot.
For example, Uncle Joe asks:
“How do you feel about candidate XX?”
“What do you think about the new FDA-approved supplement?”
“What plans do you have for the new year?”
You:
“Great question. How do you feel about them?
“I’m not sure, what about you?”
“What are your plans?”
Immediately, you shift the focus back to the other person. Most people enjoy talking about their opinions -- especially if they asked the question in the first place. And bonus points: You may actually learn something new, even if it’s that you and Uncle Joe don’t really see eye-to-eye.
Happiest of holidays to everyone!
Jenna Cooper, APR
Jenna@c3-collective.com