Your Family Life vs Your Priorities
by: Sadie Foster, MA
I once heard a great story about a dad, his electronic planner, and his child. This dad carefully explained how important his planner was to his young child after it was almost destroyed by accident. He went into great detail about how it how it held the names, how to get in touch with, and special times to meet with very important people. He shared how things that he had to do and important things he never wanted to forget where all stored in that tiny little tool. His child responded with I’m sorry daddy –I understand why it is so important to you. Can you show me where I am in it? Imagine his shock and the feeling that washed over him when he realized his beloved child, one of the main reasons he worked so hard – would not find their name in the tool. Imagine how that child felt.
If we spend the most time, most money, and most energy on the things that matter most to us – what are you habits saying? Now I’ve heard the argument before – that’s not true! I HAVE to work – I HAVE obligations that I MUST tend to. True – income must come from somewhere to provide for our loved ones, yet there is a lack of balance in our society. How many times have you heard yourself say I can’t today or I don’t have time or maybe another time? Does “another time” ever come? Is it way later if it shows up?
It is true that many of the things we are obligated to do have major consequences should we choose not to do them. We might lose a job, miss a deal, get a ticket, or be the cause of something not going well. Most people don’t realize that not making time spent with our love ones a priority also has major consequences. Typically these consequences are more subtle, easy to blame on something else and build over time. Ever wonder how a child grows up and the parents don’t know them? How couples wake up one day and realize they don’t really know their spouses anymore and they are not sure if they like the person they see? How respect is lost? It has been proven that lack of priory, lack of time spent, and lack of communication are major contributors to relationship break down. When a relationship and the people in it are treated as a major priority – its members can face and defeat challenges that come their way. Decide today to evaluate your priorities – does the way you spend your time, your money and your loyalty match what is most important to you?
Sadie Foster specializes in taking the mystery out of having enjoyable family relationships. Her systems teach the skills most of us were never taught to overcome challenges and get extra-ordinary results quickly. Making it simple to enjoy your family, enjoy your children, and enjoy your life with actionable step by step yet flexible processes. She has been serving families through counseling for the last 14 years.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
That story just tugged at my heart but children often make us see the truth. I know in my household family time is sacred. Between the hours of 4-8pm on weekdays that time belongs to my kids and they know it. I don't answer my phone,period…if it's important, then leave a message.
We as parents, need to show our children that they are important, not by the things we buy them or just by saying I love you, but by the time spent with them! They will remember.
Golda
It's so important to make time for our loved ones. And the time we set aside must be treated as non-negotiable! Great post.
I can't live without my huband giving the moments he lets me know that he wants to spend with me; I soo enjoy that. So, there are moment that I have to give back…time together is VERY important; I don't know how some people can live without it. The same for my children….Good post!
Well said, very well said. I feel like there's a shift since the dawn of the new economy because people are now questioning what they are working so hard for if they have no security and can be let go at any time.
Excellent article Sadie! It reminds me of the principle that Mary Kay Ash lived by and taught. God first, family second, and career third. If we keep our priorities in order, our life is so enjoyable!
I enjoyed reading your blog post. When my kids were younger my whole life revolved around raising them. Now that they are all grown and 3 are married, I can easily find myself consumed with running my business. I am learning to allow time for family get togethers and fun without feeling I should be doing 'work' But it certainly takes making it a focus. Great reminder.