New Year, Renewed Bond

If you are like most people, you are part of a family. You did not get to choose this extended family of parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins and siblings. However, you are part of this unit of people who are related yet all quite different. For better or for worse, this is your family. Families laugh and love and fight like no other. There is typically a fierce sense of pride amongst family members that often leads to other extreme feelings like love, hate, anger, and joy. While we may believe that families always works their issues out, the truth is, sometimes, we need an opportunity to renew the bond. This family bond is nucleus holding the whole unit together. In this new year, it is important to examine your family and renew your family bonds.

Reestablish the Foundation

Your family has a foundation of fundamental strengths. You obviously love and care for one another. However, your foundation – much like everything else in life – may need a tune-up from time to time. Communication is often the center of this foundation. Unfortunately, communication is a fragile, ever-changing concept that needs frequent reevaluation. Communication can easily break down, causing cracks in your family’s foundation.
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Therefore, it is essential to reestablish this foundation and perfect the art of communication. Part of this process is to discuss your goals individually and as a family. Often, you make the assumption that you and your family are on the same page when it comes to goals. In reality, you are still an individual, and each member of your family unit is also an individual with specific wants and needs. Without established communication, you will not be aware of the differences that can actually build upon your strengths as a family unit. ​

Spend Time Together

This may sound like a no-brainer; however, you may be surprised to know that many families miss this step all too often. Spending time together is not sitting in the same room, watching television while on the computer and texting others on your phone. Rather, it is talking, having fun, and challenging one another to grow. Ideas like a weekly family dinner, family game night, or even a family day trip help you reestablish your connection with one another. This helps you remember what you love about one another and why you like being part of this unit. The simple act of spending meaningful time together is key to renewing the family bond that is essential for a healthy, happy life.
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Of course, this is not a one-and-done type of renewal. Renewing your family bond is an ongoing process which requires follow-up and continued attempts at working together. Making time to connect with your family should be as much a part of your routine in life as going to work or meeting with friends. Your family is your first and most important bond. If you are interested in renewing your family bond this year and need a bit of help, contact Hubler for Business Families at (612) 375-0640 to learn about their “Family Renewal Retreat.”