There are certain life issues that many of us would like to ignore completely, when in fact we should be discussing them more.
It is a fear of conflict with others and an unwillingness to accept dramatic life changes that can hold us back from talking about what is really important. So what are these issues we regularly keep quiet about?
1. Funeral and Will decisions
Death is inevitable. As cliché as that sentence is, it’s true. You know it, we all know it but it is a topic of essential discussion regularly brushed under the table. However, before you avoid the subject bear in mind that such a conversation will mean your family and friends will know what to do when you die, what you would like and who your worldly possessions will go to. There will be no squabbling, clear instructions and a smoother passing, which helps everyone.
If you plan in advance you and your family can also seek advice from a free, confidential source, on subjects you might not have even considered, such as paying tax, owing or receiving a tax rebate or working out income tax after death. Click here for more information on tax issues after death.
2. The birds and the bees
If you have children then this is an essential conversation on the horizon and one that will ease any tension in the house once talked about. Once your child starts secondary school they will begin asking questions about relationships and sex so be prepared to answer any of these openly and honestly.
Many parents feel uncomfortable talking honestly to their child about the subject and children feel equally as uncomfortable approaching the subject, but to prevent unexpected pregnancies or diseases it’s important to tackle the issue head on, as soon as any curiosity shows. Here’s a quick guide on how to approach the daunting subject, from the NHS.
3. Depression and mental health
The concept of depression and mental health is something many people try to ignore and some even claim they do not believe such issues exist.
However, depression and mental health is something many people suffer with – even if it is just through the winter months and they experience symptoms of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Therefore those who are suffering must discuss their situation with loved ones and friends in order to receive support and help them understand. It’s a conversation which the listener must give their full attention to and when responding not belittle the concept of mental health issues.
4. Finances
Money and debt problems are not brought to light enough and in turn many families find themselves falling into a never-ending spiral of debt. Talking about the problem as soon as it arises is important because then those involved can find a solution. You can find free information about debt issues online from the Money Advice Service as well as advice about borrowing money.
5. Wages
You’ve been at your current workplace for three years and have not experienced a performance review or wage rise and so want to discuss this with your employer. Many people go through their working life missing out on pay increases and bonuses, simply because they were too afraid to ask for them.
If you feel you deserve a pay rise it’s essential that you plan a meeting and have this conversation with your boss. Simply explain that you enjoy your job but feel the work you are doing is worth more than you are currently being paid. Bosses dread pay requests more than you dread asking, so keep calm, stay professional and go for it.
There are plenty more taboo conversations out there that people regularly avoid (religion, politics or ending a relationship just to name a few) but if you can tackle just these five first, life will be a little simpler.
