The family is the foundation of society where other institutions ranging from neighborhoods to nations stem from. Most people, if not all, start as part of this basic structure. Beliefs, habits, and traits are developed and nurtured through the family that when these ties become tense and complicated, children end up with intellectual, physical, and emotional scars carried into adulthood. In contrast, having close familial relationships increases a person’s satisfaction and lowers rates of depression and sickness.
Joking about the strict tiger mom, creepy uncle, or gossiping sister reveal dysfunctions that must be addressed lest they fester and turn into constant fighting. It is vital to improving dynamics and communication before things get unmanageable, and dependable family lawyers in Albuquerque are called into the picture.
What is family governance?
Disagreements happen when family members have different views and misunderstand each other, especially in times of stress and emotional pressure. Communicating clearly and positively can help families navigate through conflict peacefully and productively. Family governance provides a blueprint wherein principles, policies, and practices are adopted and upheld based on every member’s needs and characteristics. Creating a shared sense of values and vision can also help in rallying the family together when difficulties arise. Here are a few ways to help improve dynamics and communication.
Nurture relationship of parents first
When couples become parents, the focus naturally shifts from the two-person relationship to the well-being of the offspring. While it is understandable that most resources are given to the child, the quality of the couple’s relationship will determine how well the new role is going to be handled. If the connection can be kept strong, they will feel they are a team handling new responsibilities rather than as two separate individuals. Investing time to reconnect, asking each other how they’re feeling, and having fun can be a big difference.
Schedule group huddles and one-on-ones
Much like in being part of a team in the business world, having regular group huddles and one-on-ones can create an environment of feedback where information is freely shared. Even 10 minutes of rapt attention without distractions can contribute to forming good communication habits. Children will also feel they are loved, valued, and listened to, which will help them open up whenever they are struggling with problems and need advice.
Acknowledge problems and work through them
The status quo of some families is to not talk about issues, emotions, and problems as these can cause tension and hurt feelings. While it might lead to peace in the short term, being silent can be dangerous and harmful as the concerns pile up and later reveal themselves intensely. Acknowledging problems and communicating feelings can help push for a more solutions-based outlook rather than feed the need to look for someone to blame. Having a conflict resolution framework agreed by the family can set the proper expectations and mechanisms.
A successful family governance system mitigates issues and conflict bound to happen when a group of people live and interact with each other. Creating an inclusive environment where opinions are heard, and feelings are communicated will make familial bonds stronger and resilient.
