Handling awkward questions during Lunar New Year: What should you do? | Safe and Sound
Lunar New Year is a time for families to gather, share stories from the past year, and celebrate the joys of the new year. However, not all conversations during Tet are comfortable. Sometimes, you'll face awkward questions from relatives, friends, or neighbors, leaving you feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable. So how can you answer tactfully without causing embarrassment to either party? Check out these suggestions from psychology experts below.
Phi Thuy Linh | Bachelor of Public Health – Application of Safe and Sound Mental Health Care
Institute of Applied Medical Technology
1. Why do sensitive questions often arise during Tet (Vietnamese New Year)?
Why do sensitive questions often arise during Tet (Vietnamese New Year)?
Psychologists believe that Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) is a time when people tend to connect and socialize more. In that open atmosphere, some people may unintentionally ask private or sensitive questions. These questions often revolve around work, income, marriage, children, or health.
According to psychologists, these questions aren't necessarily malicious; sometimes they stem simply from curiosity or a desire to connect. However, a lack of tact in how the questions are phrased can make the listener feel pressured or scrutinized.
2. Common awkward questions and how to handle them.
2.1. "When are you getting married?"
If you're still single, this is probably the most dreaded question for you. Psychologists suggest you can answer humorously or cleverly to steer the conversation in a different direction.
For example:
- "I'm waiting for the right person to come along. Do you know anyone you could introduce me to?"
- "I'm focusing on developing my career right now, and I'll let you know the good news as soon as it happens!"
2.2. "How is your income this year?"
Income is often a sensitive topic, especially when you don't want to share personal information. Answer politely without revealing too many details.
For example:
- "That's enough to have a comfortable Lunar New Year celebration, sir."
- "I'm still trying, hoping things will be better in the new year."
2.3. "When are you having a baby?"
If you are married, this question can be quite stressful, especially if you are having difficulty conceiving. Psychologists advise answering gently as follows:
For example:
- "We're also eagerly awaiting it, hoping for good news soon."
- "We want to be well-prepared before having a baby, so my husband and I are trying our best,"
2.4. "How's business this year?"
For those in business or starting a business, this is a common question, but it's difficult to answer without causing misunderstandings.
Example answer:
- "It's alright, I hope the new year brings more luck."
- "The job has its ups and downs, but I still have to keep going."
3. Tips for handling difficult questions with tact.
3.1. Maintain a calm and polite attitude.
Calmness will help you control your emotions.
According to psychology experts, maintaining calmness and politeness in communication helps protect harmony, especially during family reunions like Tet (Vietnamese New Year). Calmness allows you to control your emotions, avoiding hasty reactions or escalating tensions. Furthermore, responding politely shows respect for the questioner, even if the question is sensitive or inappropriate. This also helps you project a mature and tactful image in the eyes of others.
3.2. Using humor
Psychologists suggest that using humor creates a relaxed atmosphere, helping to reduce tension in awkward communication situations. A witty response not only avoids sensitive questions but also elicits laughter, making everyone feel more comfortable. Humor is also a clever way to maintain good relationships, as the questioner won't feel contradicted or hurt. However, humor should be used appropriately to ensure politeness and respect.
3.3. Redirecting the conversation
Psychologists suggest that redirecting the conversation is a smart way to handle the pressure of a question without offending the questioner. This method allows you to control the direction of the conversation, avoiding delving into uncomfortable or sensitive topics. At the same time, skillfully steering the conversation to a new, more appropriate topic helps maintain a positive atmosphere, creating opportunities for everyone to share other interesting things.
4. Advice from a psychologist
Psychologists share that communication skills and the ability to handle difficult situations are crucial for maintaining family and social relationships. You don't need to answer every question in detail, but show sincerity and respect in your interactions.
Additionally, you can prepare clever answers beforehand so you won't be flustered when faced with difficult questions. Confidence and a positive attitude will help you handle any situation easily.
Tet (Lunar New Year) is a time to enjoy joy and connect with family and friends. However, awkward questions are inevitable. Instead of feeling pressured, consider it an opportunity to hone your communication skills and demonstrate tactfulness. With suggestions from psychology experts, you can answer questions politely and subtly, maintaining a cheerful atmosphere in all your Tet conversations.
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