Surviving Holidays With Relatives

When it comes to differences of opinions, here are some conversation tips that can help any relationship survive the stressful holidays.

(PRWEB) October 27, 2005 -- It's not always easy getting along with spouses, relatives and even close friends during the emotionally charged holiday season. Using tact, listening and saying the right things (or nothing at all) are part of the essential communication tools for relationships to make it through the often treacherous holiday season.

Don Gabor is the author of "How to Start a Conversation and Make Friends" (Simon & Schuster/Fireside 2001) and other books on conversation skills for people at home, work and everywhere in between. Here are tips on:

How to Disagree Without Being Disagreeable

Here are ten examples of the exact words you can use to say you disagree without being disagreeable.

1. "I have a different view of the situation."

2. "Let's agree to disagree."

3. "I think we more or less agree on the goals -- it's just our

ways of getting there are different."

4. "I respect you views -- I hope you respect mine."

5. "Our views probably have more in common than you might think."

6. "We're entitled to our opinions."

7. "I agree with some of what you say."

8. "My experience is different than what you describe."

9. "I'm not coming from the same place as you."

10. "Your point is well-taken, but I still don't feel the same way you do."

11. "I don't agree with you, but I forgive you anyway." (with a smile)

Don Gabor writes books, gives corporate workshops, consults businesses, and coaches individuals on conversation skills, public speaking and networking. Since 1980, Don has helped more than a half-million people improve their ability to communicate. Don was a spokesperson for Grand Marnier, Sprint and Frito-Lay. His books have been featured in more than 1000 media interviews including the New York Times, Newsday, Fitness, National Enquirer, Readers Digest, Self, Entrepreneur, and "60 Minutes With Andy Rooney." The New Yorker called Don, "a gifted conversationalist."

If you would like a review copy and to book an interview, please call him at 718-768-0824.

Free for your audience or readers: To receive a free conversation tip sheet send a self-addressed envelope to Don Gabor, P.O. Box 715, Brooklyn, NY 11215.

P.S. Need an expert to interview for other stories that have to do with communication? I have many communication tips and real-life examples for at home and at work. For any questions, to book an interview, to get your review copy please contact him at 718-768-0824.

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