Defining and Redefining: A Family Mission Statement

We all know that companies have mission statements, but have you ever considered having one for your family?

After a separation and divorce, you may be feeling a bit out of sorts, a bit lost. You've had a certain identity - spouse, married, maybe even a different last name. Then all of a sudden, things changed and now you find yourself asking, who am I?

Now imagine your children are probably feeling just as lost, just as confused about their identity - their family now in two homes. So what to do?

Create a family mission statement, or motto!

This is an exercise I do with all my coaching clients, and encourage them have their kids participate as well.

A mission statement should be:

- clear

- concise

- devoid of filler words

How does one write a mission statement?

First, start by asking yourself some questions:

• What thing do I love to do? WHY?

  • What do I hate to do? WHY?

  • What makes me feel anxious?

  • What gets me out of bed in the morning?

  • What qualities do I value in my friends? Family? Children? Colleagues?

  • What relaxes me?

  • What makes me sad? Happy? Angry? Frustrated?

  • How do I want others to perceive me?

  • What qualities do I value in a friend?

  • What do I fear?

Second, compile a list of your values and morals - this is where the kids can really get involved!

Next, put those values in a sentence with answers to some of the questions above about what is important to you and your family.

Finally, have everyone sign it! This helps solidify its importance and will encourage family members to take it seriously.

Don't forget - have fun with it!

I suggest revisiting the mission statement annually, as needs change and children grow. Perhaps as part of your new years resolution making or in September at the start of a new school year.