How to Create a Family Mission Statement
A family mission statement is a powerful tool that can help families create a shared vision and unified goals. It establishes clear values and priorities that guide family members in their daily lives. According to The New York Times, families who regularly discuss their goals and values have a significantly higher rate of achieving those goals (source: The New York Times, 2021). In this article, readers will learn how to create their own family mission statement with easy-to-follow steps.
Why Do You Need a Family Mission Statement?
Having a family mission statement offers many benefits:
- Clarity and Focus: Clearly defines the family’s values and principles.
- Unity and Teamwork: Builds a sense of togetherness and common purpose.
- Communication: Improves family dialogues and mutual understanding.
- Guidance: Provides direction in decision-making and conflict resolution.
Steps to Create a Family Mission Statement
Step 1: Gather the Family
They should arrange a family meeting where everyone can participate. Encourage every member to share their thoughts and ideas. Ensure that the environment is open and inclusive so that even the youngest voices are heard.
Step 2: Identify Core Values
Ask each family member to list their personal values. Then, discuss together to identify values that are important to the family as a whole. Here are some example values to consider:
| Value | Description |
|---|---|
| Honesty | Being truthful and transparent with each other. |
| Respect | Valuing each person’s opinions and feelings. |
| Empathy | Understanding and sharing the feelings of others. |
| Hard Work | Putting in effort and dedication in all endeavors. |
Step 3: Develop Common Goals
Work together to set specific, achievable goals that align with the family’s core values. Goals can range from daily habits to long-term aspirations. Examples of family goals include:
- Spending quality time together every week without distractions.
- Saving for a significant family trip or project.
- Volunteering as a family in the community.
Step 4: Write Your Mission Statement
Based on the identified values and goals, craft a concise statement that embodies what the family stands for and aims to achieve. Here is a simple structure to follow:
- Introduction: Who they are as a family.
- Main Body: Core values and beliefs.
- Conclusion: Family’s vision and specific goals.
Step 5: Review and Revise
Everyone should review the draft mission statement together. Ensure that it accurately reflects the family’s ideals and aspirations. Make any necessary revisions until everyone is satisfied with the final version.
Step 6: Display and Live by Your Mission Statement
Once finalized, they should display the mission statement in a prominent place in their home. Refer to it often to ensure that the family stays aligned with its values and goals. Over time, they can revisit and revise the mission statement as the family grows and changes.
Key Takeaways
- A family mission statement helps families create a shared vision and unified goals.
- The process involves identifying core values, setting common goals, and writing the statement together.
- Regularly revisiting and living by the mission statement can strengthen family unity and purpose.
FAQ
1. What are some examples of family values?
Common family values include honesty, respect, empathy, kindness, responsibility, and teamwork.
2. How often should we update our family mission statement?
It’s a good idea to review and update the mission statement every year or when significant changes occur in the family.
3. What if not everyone in the family agrees on the values and goals?
Encourage open discussion and compromise. Focus on finding common ground and values that everyone can support.
4. Can a family’s mission statement be changed?
Yes, a family’s mission statement can and should be revised as the family grows and their circumstances change.
5. How long should a family mission statement be?
The mission statement should be concise and clear. Aim for one to two paragraphs that capture the essence of the family’s values and goals.