In order for families to grow and prosper they must be proactive. They must have a vision that will take them into the future. One of the most useful tools for individuals, corporations and families is a written mission statement. This written statement is similar to the rudder on a boat in that it helps focus us and map our direction through the stream of life. Without a rudder the boat will end up somewhere downstream. Without a mission statement families sometimes flounder without clear course, direction or bearings.
You may be asking yourself how does our family go about developing a mission statement and what should it include? Use your weekly family meeting to create an ongoing dialog about family and societal values and put them to paper. Remember it takes time to do this properly and effectively. An effective family mission statement should address four central themes. It should be timely so that it stands the test of time and doesn't need to be adjusted as family issues and problems evolve. It should deal with means and ends that include growth and skill building opportunities as well as goals. It should address all four basic needs; the physical need to live; the relational need to love; the mental need to learn; and the spiritual need to leave a legacy. It should include all the roles in our lives in our home, occupations and affairs.
Article based on Steven Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families.