Family Mission Statements

Hello friends! As a new year begins, I highly encourage each and every family to prepare a family mission statement. It can be of great value during the tough times which are surely to be a part of life’s experiences.

When you begin this project, focus on your family’s values, goals, and ambitions. A Family Mission Statement clarifies and organizes your energies so that each member of the family can identify with something good and noble.

May I suggest four pointers for organizing and preparing a Family Mission Statement. (Remember, it need not be long or complex.)

1) A mission statement might be based upon a scripture like "I, Nephi, said unto my father, I will go ..." or a noble statement such as "Return with Honor." This theme can be learned by the youngest and/or least eager member of the family and is the first step to clarifying a mission statement for your family.

2) The mission statement could continue with positive characteristics your family values: honesty, integrity, a high work ethic, compassion, or whatever values you feel could and should be developed.

3) The Family Mission Statement might describe some family goals such as a desire for your children to be well-educated, strive for wholesome marriages, and have their own eternal families. Describing what values you would like them to be true to, what standards you hold dear, and what you treasure can unite your efforts as a family unit.

4) Lastly, the Family Mission Statement might also describe some areas of family unity like "in our family we are kind and considerate of each other" or "in our family we will work together until the job is done right." Use what you feel would work to identify your family as special and unique and bring everyone closer to your long-term desires for your children.

So, think about a Family Mission Statement. Speak to your spouse about it, maybe inquire of your children, and then remember to think on these four ideas: 1) a scripture or a noble saying, 2) positive characteristics, 3) family goals; and, 4) familial unity. When your mission statement is complete, print and frame it. Then display it in a prominent place in your home.

When your mission statement is well understood and maybe even memorized, you can extend the influence of your family mission statement by preparing a family flag using colors and symbols to emphasize your Family Mission Statement. A family hymn might be chosen to sing on special days such as when missionaries leave, a significant calling comes to someone in your family, or on your anniversary (the beginning of your family unit). You might even go so far as to have a family holiday, special day chosen by your family to remember the blessings your family has received and the challenges you have survived.

Take care now and have a great year. A family mission statement and its accompanying flag, song, and holiday can really help your family become something special!