The Do’s and Don’ts of Talking to Your Family at Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is here—a time for turkey, pumpkin pie, and, of course, family conversations. While some topics can bring everyone closer together, others are better left off the table (no matter how tempting they might be).

To help you navigate these potentially tricky waters, we’ve put together a Do’s and Don’ts guide to ensure your Thanksgiving conversations are both meaningful and enjoyable.

✅ The Do’s: Safe and Positive Topics

1. The Weather
   • A classic go-to topic. Everyone has an opinion on the cold, snow, or how soon spring will arrive!
2. Estate Planning
   • While it might not sound festive, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to ensure everyone over 18 has their estate planning in order. It’s a conversation that shows you care about your family’s future.
3. The Office (TV Show)
   • Debating the best Office episodes or quoting your favorite lines is always a hit.
4. The High Cost of Probate
   • Bringing awareness to the expenses and delays of probate can spark interest in creating a will or trust—and it’s a practical discussion with long-term benefits.
5. Chocolate
   • Because who doesn’t love chocolate? Whether it’s dessert at the table or favorite brands, this is a surefire win.
6. Creating a Trust
   • Why not discuss how trusts can protect your loved ones and avoid unnecessary legal hassles? It’s a smart way to ensure family assets stay where they belong.

❌ The Don’ts: Avoid These at All Costs

1. Politics
   • We’ve all been there. It’s best to leave these divisive conversations for another time.
2. Which Eagles Song is Best
   • Unless your family loves heated debates, this is another rabbit hole to avoid.
3. Aunt Sandy’s Marriages
   • Family drama is not a recipe for holiday cheer.
4. The Office (Real Life Version)
   • Complaints about work or gossip about coworkers might bring the mood down fast.
5. Sydney’s Ex-Husband
   • Enough said.
6. Cilantro
   • Believe it or not, cilantro can be as divisive as politics. Some love it; others think it tastes like soap. Spare yourself the debate.

Why Estate Planning Should Be a Thanksgiving Tradition

Amid all the food and fun, Thanksgiving is the ideal time to have meaningful discussions with your loved ones. Estate planning topics—like wills, trusts, and long-term care—can feel daunting, but bringing them up in a supportive family environment can make all the difference.

• Why Talk About It Now?
  • Everyone is gathered together, and it’s a chance to ensure the family is on the same page about important matters.
• How to Approach the Topic:
  • Start by sharing your own experience: “I’ve been working on my estate plan recently, and it made me think—have you thought about yours?”
  • Focus on the benefits: “It’s not just about money; it’s about making things easier for the people we love.”
• Why It Matters:
  • Discussing estate planning can prevent family disputes, reduce stress, and protect your loved ones’ futures.

Let Us Help

This Thanksgiving, if estate planning comes up and you’re unsure where to start, Jarvis Law Office is here for you. From wills and trusts to long-term care planning, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

So this holiday season, focus on what matters most: family, food, and peace of mind for the future.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Jarvis Law Office!