Terri Ramsey Beavers A happy family is a dream everyone wishes to achieve, but it can be more evasive than you imagine. You may chase material things like a beautiful home, money, and assets to secure your loved ones. But these are about stability and security instead of happiness. Happy families do not thrive on wealth, so you must pick the relevant criteria to create one. As a parent, you can follow these tried and tested secrets to guide your tribe on the road to happiness.
Enjoy each other
The real joy comes from enjoying each other, but families often miss the part because they chase other things. According to expert relationship counselors, your interactions as a family determine how you feel about and with each other. Learn to relish every moment you are together as a clan. Think beyond picnics and holidays because even daily meals and TV time should be full of joy. It is more about being together than doing things.
Put your marriage first
Parents who prioritize their marriage are in a better place to build a happy family. A strong relationship as spouses sets a real example of love for your kids. Of course, children are precious to parents, but they should not be the top priority. You may feel guilty about it, but you shouldn’t because your kids will be in a safer place when your relationship thrives. Moreover, children move out eventually, and your partner is the only person you will be left with.
Follow a daily prayer ritual
A daily prayer ritual brings your loved ones together and takes your tribe a step closer to real happiness. You can follow the teachings of Wyoming Carmelites and embrace prayer as the core of your existence. It connects everyone to a single purpose and keeps your faith going, even during hard times. Start the day with a prayer, include it in your mealtimes, and end the day with a bedtime ritual.
Encourage sibling harmony
You may invest too much in keeping the kids happy, but fail to ensure they do well as a tribe. The best way to achieve happiness goals is by encouraging sibling harmony. Treat all kids the same, and let them resolve differences on their own. Intervene only when things go out of hand. Plan together time for your kids, and pick activities that make them work as a team.
Prioritize work-life balance
Your role as a parent should go beyond being a provider for the family. Of course, bringing the money is crucial, but not at the cost of quality time with your loved ones. Prioritizing an optimal work-life balance can help you get the best of both worlds. Reserve the evenings and weekends for your clan. But remember to create space for solo time and couple time as they are equally vital.
Creating a happy family need not be a daunting challenge. You only need to give your best as a parent and trust your instincts. Also, find ways to spend quality time doing things everyone loves.