Time Management Tips For The Family
By Gary Chapman
Family relationships are always in process. If we want to keep our marriages alive and our families healthy, then we must find ways of balancing work and family. Thousands of men and women are finding that a growing marriage and a healthy family require readjusting schedules from time to time. The key question is, "How does my work affect my marriage and family?" Once I answer that question, I will know if I need to change my work patterns.
The Scriptures teach that life's meaning is not found in things, but in relationships. It is found first in a relationship with God, and then with family and others.
The answer is not always less work. Sometimes the answer is integrating the family into my work. For example, does your work allow the opportunity for you and your spouse to have lunch together from time to time? Such lunches can be an oasis in the midst of a dry day.
If your work requires travel, could you take your spouse or one of your children with you? This allows a mini-vacation which you might not otherwise be able to afford. It also exposes your family to your vocation and gives them a little more appreciation for what you do.
Less work and more time at home is not necessarily the answer. Better use of time at home may make all the difference.
Do something different tonight with your spouse or with a child.
Get out of the routine.
Minimize the television and maximize activity and conversation.
Keep your marriage alive and growing. |