Sometimes simple habits and choices make a big difference. The families in our Resilient Families project have shared that the following things have made the biggest difference in their family’s growth and mutual satisfaction.
Eating meals together. This means not just physically being in the same place, but engaging with each other over a meal.
Having fun together. Connecting through play and laughter. Many families felt that fun was a luxury of those with money and didn’t realize that one doesn’t need any money to play together.
Showing gratitude to one another. Saying thank you for a meal prepared, acknowledging a child’s help with chores, complimenting one another’s appearance, or writing notes of appreciation.
Learning each other’s love languages. Understanding how each member of the family both gives and receives love, and then intentionally expressing love accordingly.
Working on projects together. From solving jigsaw puzzles to sharing enterprise ideas, saving money and helping with school work, coming together with a goal and working together to accomplish it.
Creating a vision to help others. A strong family has the opportunity to impact others who are struggling. Realizing this vision gives purpose, energy, and greater commitment to strengthening your family.
Understanding that each child is a gift from God. When you don’t just know this but you believe it, and you can allow the truth to drive your behavior.
Try putting some of these into practice today. It takes initiative, vision and commitment. Family health doesn’t happen over night, but because strong families produce resilient individuals and bring healing to many others, it is worth the effort! The impact will be life changing!