Instead of getting personal just say something like “I really didn’t like that you went into my room and read my diary. Those are my personal thoughts and I want to keep them to myself. " Older family members should set the example. The more that you yell and scream in your house, the more likely that children will emulate the behavior. [3] X Research source If you are a younger person in the family whose elders yell and scream, it doesn’t mean that it’s the right thing to do. Remain calm and talk to your family members. Saying things like “calm down” or “it’s not a big deal” may make someone angrier. Try to see their point of view and the reasons they are mad instead of dismissing their feelings.

For example, if your parents asked you to raise your grades and you get angry, think about why you are angry. Are you angry that your parents are asking you to do something, or are you angry because you’re having a difficult time in school and may need help? In the end they are looking out for your best interests. Let negative feelings of entitlement go. Don’t think things like “It’s not fair” or dwell on not getting your way. It will make you angrier over time. [5] X Research source Do not hold back your feelings or emotions to try to come off friendly or polite. If something bothers you, speak up, or else you may repress your anger, and it could come up at a later time. [6] X Research source

If you are child or teen, then join a sports team at your school or an intramural sport at the local community center. If you are older, some hobbies to pick up include hiking, mountain climbing, biking, or going on a jog. Being heavily involved in a hobby or sport will also get you away from your family more often, which may allow you to appreciate them.

Think about a time when someone at school made fun of you in front of a crowd. Chances are you felt humiliated, embarrassed, and depressed. Realize that this is how your family members feel when you yell or scream in public, at them. Treating others poorly encourages people to treat you in a similar way.

If you’re a teenager, think about what your parents provide for you like food, clothing, shelter, love, and education opportunities. If you are a parent, think about the joy that you felt when you first had them and try to be more understanding. Another method you could use is to imagine how you would feel if you lost that family member that you have negative feelings for. This may make you appreciate them more. [9] X Research source

Clutter can create stress and tension. Make sure that you clear away clutter and do things around the house to improve your family’s mood. [10] X Research source

Gift ideas include chocolate, flowers, a new video game, an instrument, or a Blu-ray of their favorite show. If you don’t have any money you can make a card, write them a note, paint them something, or pick a flower from a garden.

You can say something like, “I’m really sorry about forgetting to let out the dog yesterday. It was really my fault and I’ll try not to do it again. "

If you are an adult, try to stay away from being dismissive or saying things like “get over it” to younger family members. Even though the issue may seem trivial to you, it could be causing them immense stress. If you are child or teen, try supporting older family members through rough times by helping out more around the house and doing nice things for them. Be on your best behavior when your parents are working a lot or someone in your family is sick. If a younger family member needs advice, make sure to be there for them.

Start by saying “Hey how was your day?” when you see family members when you get home. You can communicate disapproval by saying something like, “Jimmy, I know that you like to play games, but you need to limit it to three hours a day. It’s cutting into your homework time and it’s not good for you. " Don’t be afraid to tell your parents the truth if you’ve done something wrong. If they find out, and you didn’t tell them, the consequences may be worse.

Silence is sometimes the best way to get someone to admit their mistakes. People will typically work problems out verbally when explaining something. Don’t act judgemental when someone is admitting or confessing something to you. This will prevent them from being open and honest in the future. [12] X Research source

Say something like “I need to cool down right now, but I do want to talk about this later. Do you mind if we talk about it in an hour?” Make sure to revisit the point of conflict once you calm down. Do not totally avoid it or resentment could grow.

Speaking in a negative way creates a negative environment which will hurt you in the long run.