Developing a relationship and bonding with your father-in-law can be a daunting challenge.
Try to take an active interest in some of your father-in-laws hobbies.If he is a golfer, ask him for some advice.If you know how to golf, ask him to go play with you.If not, ask if he'd be willing to help you learn - invite him to the driving range to help you with your swing. First of all, you will be a massage his ego by asking him for advice, rather than having asked a friend of yours.Secondly, when you are out together you'll have the opportunity to bond in an atmosphere that is very relaxed and casual.You don't need to worry about awkward silences because you can just hit another ball when you run out interesting things to say. While you are out, try to talk about more than just the activity at hand.Ask him about his experience being a father; ask him about what your wife was like when she was growing up.Trust me, he likes talking about his family and he will be happy to see that you want to hear about his daughter and her life before you came into the picture.He will see that you are trying to become a part of the family, not take his daughter away from it.
Invite your father-in-law over to your home so that he can see firsthand that you're providing a safe and happy home for your wife.If there is good weather, have a barbecue.You and your father-in-law can bond over the grilling activities.Ask for his advice about barbecuing.Whenever you ask someone for advice, they feel flattered, so it's a great way to begin to build a relationship.It sort of helps to break someone's wall down because people like it when they feel like you like them.It will show your father-in-law that you have respect for him and that you value his opinion. The more time you invest in your relationship with your father-in-law, the stronger that your bond and friendship will become.
