As we've noted before in this blog, family dinners at holidays can be great for gathering information about your interests.

However, well meaning adults may want to quiz you on your career or education plans. You may not want to be quizzed.  

If you are not ready to talk about your plans, job goals or work, here are some ways you can deflect those well meant but put-you-on-the-spot questions:

Teens- When adults ask your plans for after high school, tell them you are still doing your research. Ask them to tell you about their current job and the fields in which they have worked. Ask them about their educational experience. Did they go to technical school, community college or university?  Ask what kinds of entry level jobs or internships they might suggest for you to learn more about fields that interest you.  Chat up all the adults present about their work experience. You may learn useful information, but if they talk and you listen, you are not the focus of intense scrutiny.

Young adults - When asked your plans, if you need more information or contacts in a field, see above.  Quiz your quizzers.

Adults - If you have no wish to talk about your work or career situation, don't. Instead, say that Thanksgiving is a day to focus on gratitude, not work. State a couple things you are thankful for, then ask your inquisitor what they are thankful for. This works especially well with people who tend to be a bit snarky about your unemployment, your choice of work, or your lack of career (in their eyes).

If an adult, well meaning or otherwise, makes a comment about choosing a career that you don't think is right, feel free to write to me at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  I'll tell you what I know about issue in question.

If today leaves you feeling blue, write out a list of everything in your life you are grateful for.  And, do remember this writer's mantra:  If no one is shooting at you, it's a great day!{jcomments on}