A Family Mission Statement

As Matt and I continue to talk about expanding our family with the addition of a baby (we’re not even thinking about starting to try until the end of the school year), it’s important that we continue to clarify for ourselves what kind of family we are and what kind of family we strive to be.

I pulled out the writer’s notebook and asked Matt to indulge me in a little brainstorming session. Here’s what we’ve come up with so far (in no particular order):

We are a family that…

• values health and wellness in the form of regular exercise and healthy eating.
• makes it a habit to eat home-cooked meals together and prioritizes conversation and connection while eating.
• resolves problems, issues, and conflict respectfully and in a constructive rather than destructive way.
• does professional work that is meaningful, enjoyable, fulfilling, and good for the world.
• makes time to laugh together and express appreciation for each other.
• shares responsibilities equitably but covers for each other when needed.
• cultivates community and connection among friends, family, and neighbors and continuously seeks to expand our circle.
• Aligns our lifestyle choices and actions with our concern for the environment.

We still have more to go with regard to gardening, traveling, supporting each other, building trust, fighting consumerism, etc.

It’s definitely a work in progress!

This process reminds me of a book by Steven Covey: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families. I need to excavate this book from my shelves and reread it.