You give Craving Communication some good advice, but I wanted to shed a different light on this situation. What she describes appears, from my perspective, to be some sort of bias. Powerful people tend to have a bias toward people who don’t present as powerful or aggressive. Yes, you will feel ignored. Another strategy to consider is modifying your behavior by mirroring his behavior in order to get his attention. Say something pointed and walk away. I have found this strategy tends to bring the power player to view you differently and therefore respond differently. This can prepare the power player for a crucial conversation with you. My two cents.

You give Craving Communication some good advice, but I wanted to shed a different light on this situation. What she describes appears, from my perspective, to be some sort of bias. Powerful people tend to have a bias toward people who don’t present as powerful or aggressive. Yes, you will feel ignored. Another strategy to consider is modifying, or mirroring, his behavior in order to get his attention. Say something pointed and walk away. I have found this strategy tends to bring the power player to view you differently and therefore respond differently. This can be the prepare the power player for a crucial conversation with you. My two cents.

Rebecca

People who won’t allow you to get a word in edgewise are probably trembling inside.

Fear blocks us from growth and acceptance.

Your father in law may be a powerful man but what did it take for him to get to the place that he is in now? A lot of bumps and bruises.

He’s guarded. Find what you do agree on in his conversation and build on that. If there are any differences of opinion, analyze whether its more important for him to know what you’re thinking or to burst his bubble.

Deductive reasoning simply reveals that he is older than you are.
Older people don’t always like being taught by younger people.
If he ask for your opinion then that’s your opening.
He’s a man. Men don’t like being shown up by women.
Again, when he asks your opinion, then share it.

Until then, find some people who share like ideas, and converse with them. Have some girlfriend time.

If there aren’t any people around, then write. Journalism your thoughts is a very good way to sharpen your mind and monitor your own growth at the same time.

Lastly,

He’s a fella. Even though your his daughter in law, all men have a hunter’s instinct and when you stop pursuing a conversation with him, he’ll start pursuing one with you. He will be able to tell when you’re not trying to tell him ANYTHING anymore, and that my friend will certainly be when he will become interested in what you are thinking.

The wonderful thing about all of this is that you can change your angle about conversing with your father-in-law and strengthen your relationship with your husband all at the same time.

Read A Return to Love a Reflection on a Course in Miracles by Marianne Williamson. It will open your mind to a whole new way of thinking.

~Doniell~