By Tiya Cunningham-Sumter
2010 was a great year. GOD really blessed this year. As it comes to a close and we plan for the new one I am sure we think about the changes we want to make and the good “new things” we want to add to our lives. Usually New Years’ resolutions are specific toward individual desires (like losing weight or to quit smoking). But how about creating resolutions geared toward the family?
Here a few questions that can generate a great family discussion for the New Year:
What did we learn about our family in 2010?
What was our biggest challenge?
How did we overcome that challenge?
What do we pray that 2011 brings us more of? What do we have to do to get more of that?
What are some of our individual goals for the New Year?
How can we support one another in achieving those goals?
How can we hold one another accountable for achieving those goals?
What could possibly get in the way of us achieving those goals?
Once these questions have been answered and goals have been determined, it is equally important to create a plan of action that allows us to stick to them. A family mission statement is always a great way to create, together, your ultimate goals for your family. A mission statement is designed by the whole family (parents and children) and states the mission or purpose of the family. It can be as general or detailed as the family decides. Here is an example of how to begin:
“In 2011 the Smith family plans to communicate more. The Smith children are encouraged to share openly how they feel and the Smith parents will listen attentively. The Smith family will have dinner together at least 4 nights a week, take at least 2 family vacations and support one another with school and work”
Each family member can also add what they plan to contribute specifically to uphold the family’s mission. Planning the family’s New Year goals can and should be a fun experience. It allows every family member to feel their importance to the family. Each role is necessary to the success of the family. Join with me and my family as we plan for a successful 2011.
Happy New Year BMWK!
Tiya Cunningham-Sumter is a Certified Life & Relationship Coach, Founder of Life Editing and creator of The Black Wives’ Club. Tiya was featured in Ebony Magazine in the October 2008 and November 2010 issues. She resides in Chicago with her husband and two children.