10 Topics To Avoid Bringing Up This Thanksgiving & 10 That Are Always Safe
Let Uncomfortable Dinner Conversations Be A Thing Of The Past
We've all been there: praying internally that Uncle Jerry doesn't bring up his controversial political views, Aunt Mary would stop criticizing the food, and Mom won't ask Rob why he's still single. Many of us know too well the uncomfortable feeling when a conversation at the dinner table takes a turn for the worse. For some families, Thanksgiving is a night to look forward to while for others it's full of anxiety lest someone bring up that dreaded subject. Here are ten topics to avoid this Thanksgiving and ten good alternatives to steer the conversation toward.
1. The Election
Everyone knows politics is a taboo subject, but because the recent election results are so fresh on everyone's mind, it might feel tempting to bring them up. Try to avoid this as you're likely to be unpleasantly surprised by at least one of your family member's political leanings.
2. The Situation In The Middle East/Ukraine
The current wars that are plaguing the world right now are extremely polarizing, taboo topics that are likely to bring a little too much heat to the discussion. Even if everyone at your dinner table has similar opinions about these global crises, talking about them is sure to bring a dark cloud over an otherwise festive evening.
3. Vaccines
With the COVID-19 pandemic fresh in our past, vaccine talks might seem relevant. However, the matter of vaccines has become politicized and everyone has a different opinion on the topic so it's best not to bring it up.
4. Religion
Whether you've found God or recently became an atheist, let's not bring it up at the dinner table. Religion has always been a taboo subject and is bound to make people feel judged or start fights in the name of their ideology.
5. Money
With the cost of living on the rise all over the country, a huge amount of people are struggling financially. Bringing up anything to do with costs, money, or salary is likely to bring bad vibes.
6. The Environment
Global warming is a hot topic right now (pun intended) but you should probably steer clear of it. The matter has become highly politicized and might stir up too many strong opinions.
7. Gun Control
With the past years' tragic school shootings fresh in everyone's mind, you might be tempted to discuss this topic. However, few subjects are more polarizing in the US so steer clear.
8. Why Someone Isn't Married
The classic taboo dinner table subject that inevitably gets brought up so often anyway is why someone is still single. It puts that person on the spot and will only make them feel frustrated and misunderstood or lonely and unfulfilled.
9. Immigration
A hot topic in the news that might be a little too fiery for the dinner table is immigration. Everyone has different opinions on this matter and it can quickly get too heated.
10. How Much Someone Is Eating
Just like diet and weight are obviously taboo, bringing up how much someone is eating or how quickly is also rude. It's a great way to make that person feel self-conscious and negative about themselves.
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Not sure what to talk about if all those are taboo? Here are ten safe topics that will guarantee a pleasant conversation.
1. Share What You're Grateful For
A nice on-theme dinner discussion is to go around the table and have everyone share what they're grateful for. Besides, when do you ever stop and do this if not on Thanksgiving?
2. Praise The Food And Swap Recipes
Never say anything potentially negative about the food or how you would change it. Only say good things, talk about the flavors, and swap recipes if you wish.
3. Books, Movies, & TV Shows
Books, movies, and TV shows are generally safe topics that can be genuinely interesting. The goal is for everyone to leave the table with at least one addition to their watch (or read) list.
4. Shared Memories
Bask in nostalgia together and feel that pleasant closeness you only get with family by reliving shared memories. Just remember to steer clear of potentially embarrassing ones that someone at the table might not be keen on.
5. Swap Travel Stories
Everyone loves reliving their favorite travel moments. Plus, it's a great way to learn about different places and add new destinations to your mental list.
6. Favorite Activities
Another safe topic is to talk about your favorite activities and hobbies of the moment. Go around the table, ask everyone what they're into these days, and watch their faces light up as they talk about their current passions.
7. Lighthearted News Stories
Did you see something funny or heartwarming in the news recently? Share it with the family and enjoy a laugh together. Just make sure to keep the heavier news stories out of it.
8. Share Holiday Plans
Thanksgiving marks a shift in focus to more holiday-oriented thinking. Help everyone build up their hype for the coming season by asking about holiday plans.
9. Talk About Your Bucket List Items
Go around the table and ask everyone what their bucket list items are. It'll get everyone thinking and help you learn more about each other.
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10. Play "Would You Rather"
If all else fails, you always have "would you rather" to fall back on. Just remember to keep your questions lighthearted and non-invasive.
