Time flies. Despite a pandemic that seemed to bring the world to a screeching halt, this school year flew by. Do you have a long-term plan for your family? What do you hope your family will look like in 5, 10, 20 years? Thinking that far in advance may seem daunting, but there are action steps we can take today in order for our family to have a bright future.
Practice balance.
Wisdom is not scrambling to throw together a meal when dinnertime rolls around. Find balance between living in the moment, but appropriately planning for tomorrow, between building relationships with your children and making a living. Balance won’t find you. You have to find the balance that works for your family.
Spend less than you earn—every month.
There are a number of budgeting principals your family can follow, but this one is a simple guideline with complex repercussions. Stabilize spending and pay off debt so you can build for the future.
Invest yourself in your children.
Today is the right time to be present for your children. In financial terms, parental neglect—prioritizing your job, hobbies, interests—over your children is like negative interest compounded daily. What you invest into your child today will pay dividends in his or her life years down the road.
Make the tough choices today.
Bite the bullet now. Get your finances in check. Work on your marriage. Spend time with your kids. Don’t put the important things off for a better, more convenient time.
Love your spouse.
Too many parents make life all about their children, neglecting their spouse. Your best gift to your children is to show them a loving, healthy relationship. If you’re divorced, show that through a relationship of respect and support. Two decades of love and respect are the best preparation a child can receive for his or her own future relationships.
Build memories that you will remember.
You may or may not live in the neighborhood you always dreamed of, or have the job or income level you aspired for, but you can always give your children memories that will last them a lifetime. Check out all of the summer fun ideas in this issue of Owensboro Parent. You are sure to find some ideas!
Never give up.
Ordinary families struggle. Struggle is part of the definition of life. It’s how we respond to challenges that determines what the family looks like 20 years from now. Don’t give up on yourself, your spouse, your children or the life you want for your family.