Family is everything to me. Nothing else matters if my family isn't strong, happy, and thriving.
My ultimate goal in life is to be focused on creating a positive and uplifting environment for everyone involved.
I think this is something we all crave, but sometimes it's hard to know what it takes to have one. In my mind, it's important that we all look for positive role models and to think deeply about the changes we need to make as we strive for the support we crave. I think we need our families to lean on.
As I say this, I understand and love the fact that families come in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes we don't have our biological families to lean on, and we create a family of friends instead. Regardless, the fundamentals are largely the same.
According to a study by the University of Nebraska, the following are the six characteristics of strong families. I hope that diving into them will be both informational and inspiring.
#1 - Commitment
Strong families are committed to each other and put their family members before anyone or anything. The family unit is the highest priority.
No matter how busy or preoccupied we are with life, my husband and I always put each other and our children first. We are committed to making our family life as positive and unbreakable as possible.
This makes our home a happy spot for friends and family to visit and a healthy place for our children to thrive.
#2 - Appreciation
Strong families are grateful for each other. They are thankful for and express their appreciation to each other on a daily basis.
I feel so connected and solid with my husband when he praises me for the smallest things. I know my children feel the same way. Strong families affirm their love for each other regularly.
#3 - Communication
Positive communication is very important, no matter how big or small the issue — staying connected and talking through issues is so valuable for strength and unity.
#4 - Time Together
Strong and thriving families spend quality time together and actually enjoy it. Whether it's planning activities out of the house, watching a movie on the couch together, baking together, or going to the beach together.
Spending time with family members helps stay connected and should be a huge priority.
#5 - Spiritual Wellness
I strongly believe that we are spiritual beings having a spiritual existence on earth. I've seen that family members who all believe in a greater power and/or the power of the universe tend to thrive together.
Having consistent values and ethics, brings a sense of stability to everyone involved.
Of course, not everyone is always going to be on the same page with spirituality, but connecting the deepest part of your being helps make everyone stronger and more connected.
#6 - Togetherness in Crisis and Stress
Strong families work together and create strategies for getting over the rough patches. They stay united during and after stressful events and manage crises effectively.
Rather than allowing stress to plow them over and tear them apart, they support each other and provide a shoulder to cry on. They are there to protect and defend each other against all odds.
Last Words
It's safe to say that the current state of the world is throwing curveballs at everyone. We're all trying to navigate through the uncertainties of Covid and are wondering what the future will hold.
But, I am certain if we stay tight and keep our families strong, we can make it through and create a stronger and more united world together.
