Families For Life | 7 family goals to add to your New Year's resolutions
New Year’s resolutions—most of us have probably made them before. After all, new year, new you, right? But have you ever tried making these resolutions together with your family?
Setting goals as a family is different from setting personal ones. Everyone’s efforts contribute to something bigger. Even on days when motivation runs low, the collective momentum of your family can help keep you on track, ensuring you all move forward together. Celebrating your wins as a team also brings the added bonus of growing closer as a family.
Ready to kick off the new year with achievable goals to work towards? Here are seven family goals to inspire your New Year’s resolutions!
1. Foster Better Communication
Good communication within the family creates a safe environment where everyone can express their needs, wants, and concerns without fear of judgement. This fosters mutual understanding and helps you achieve your family goals together. One way to build open and honest communication is by setting aside time for family discussions. Regular check-ins ensure everyone feels heard, valued, and supported as you work toward shared goals.
2. Have Daily Family Dinners
Dedicate one meal a day for everyone to gather and eat together. It’s a great opportunity to unwind, connect, and share about each other’s day. When everyone listens attentively, it reinforces respect and shows that you value each other’s experiences.
3. Divide Household Chores
Create a chore chart to fairly distribute tasks among family members. This teaches responsibility, accountability, and teamwork, which are essential life skills. Remember that it’s okay to be flexible with this chart, as some members may occasionally contribute more than others. Families thrive on understanding and mutual support, especially during challenging times.
4. Exercise Together
Fitting exercise into your day can be tough, but doing it as a family boosts motivation. Dedicate at least one day a week to family exercise. Whether it’s a simple walk in the park or a fun cycling trip, staying active together strengthens both your bodies and your bond. Need ideas for child-friendly activities? Check out this resource for inspiration and safety tips!
5. Plan Family Adventure Days
Set aside time weekly or monthly—depending on your schedule—for family adventures. Explore pop-up events, try something new, or simply enjoy quality time together. These moments create stress-free environments and lasting memories. To make the experience truly meaningful, unplug from phones and devices and be fully present with each other.
6. Improve Your Nutrition Together
Eating healthy is easier when the whole family is on board. Use this opportunity to introduce new foods to your children and lead by example. If you’re worried about picky eating or want to encourage healthier habits, here are some tips to help improve your child’s diet and make nutritious eating enjoyable for the whole family!
7. Create a Gratitude Jar
It’s a simple yet meaningful way to celebrate life's beautiful moments and blessings. It offers your family a chance to express appreciation and create a treasure trove of memories to revisit whenever you want to reminisce or uplift your spirits. Keep some slips of paper and a pen in a common area, so it's easy to jot down something a family member did that you're grateful for and drop it into the jar. Then, set aside time as a family to open the jar together once a month, or anytime you feel like it!
Setting goals as a family is a fun way to create memories and keep everyone motivated! They don’t have to be complicated—just make sure they’re achievable. Plus, this could even become a meaningful new tradition to kick off every year!