How to have a happy family

A good and happy family is composed of supportive and faithful people who love each other unconditionally. Without the proper foundations, a family can fracture and turn into a dysfunctional one — or worse, where violence is the norm.

For generations, our family ways have been passed down to us by the same ways we learn our native language. The importance of family, as many of us have grown up with it. For it is evident that one cannot thrive in life if they do not have a support system by their side.

We often take for granted the hard work and sacrifices that our parents and grandparents went through just to give us this opportunity to lead a normal life. We tend to believe that we have nothing to lose so we should do our best to keep in line with their values, and show them the same appreciation they have given us.

But this is not always the case. There are things that sometimes we see as necessary but actually are needed. We need to listen more and stop judging each other, especially when it comes to parenting. Listening to each other is such a tool for ensuring a happy family.

What is a happy family?

The foundation of a happy family is a parent who constantly shows their love and support to their child. They balance the need to support with discipline. By showing this, they encourage the child to mature into responsible individuals who are known to be hardworking, selfless and loving.

Such behavior will naturally be learned by them because they’re taught by example. That is why it is important that we reflect on our own values and teach them on how to set standards for themselves.

How important is a happy family?

A happy family is the basic foundation of a happy life. Events occur that might break our strong and secure foundations, but if we are able to stand together, especially in times of difficulty, we can pass through them in a smooth and peaceful manner.

Even when there are bad things that happen — like losing loved ones or experiencing betrayal from one’s own sibling — being able to depend on our family can be a good source of comfort and strength.

Tips to have a happy family

1. Keep the family together

It is understandable that our lives have different paths to follow, but make sure you give time for your family. We should work hard to be with the ones we love. This can be done by making it a habit to go home not only for a holiday but also for a simple dinner. We do not need a big gathering to appreciate each other’s presence. It should be enough just to have us all together as a family.

Family members can disagree on almost anything, but they should still be able to unite. Do not throw insults or be rude to each other. No matter how different you are and how much you hate each other’s thoughts, at least respect them by listening to their opinions. Do not alienate yourself when your siblings want to spend time with you — instead, join them and do what is right.

2. Spend time with your family

It is advisable that you have an open communication with your parents. Whatever you have to discuss, do not hesitate to ask advice from them, so that you can understand each other better and work as a team in order to build for a good future.

3. Say the right things

A family member once said “We all have different personalities and different ways of doing things.” When we talk to each other, show true love and respect. Never say things that can hurt the other, no matter what happens. The main goal is for them to feel loved and appreciated by all siblings — including your parents who usually give them more attention than you do.

4. Eating together and telling stories

After a meal, share stories. There are times when you do not have to go out to do so. It is never a bad idea to spend time with your family after a meal. Even new baby siblings should be brought into the story-telling and singing circle. This is one of the best ways to make sure that your parents will love you and be proud of you — because they will appreciate you and give you much love.

5. Respect your siblings’ feelings

Try not to make fun or show negative behavior when your siblings tell you about something that happened in their lives. If you react badly to their sharing, they will not be able to appreciate your love when needed. Always listen and respond to them with understanding and compassion. When it comes from your mouth, mean what you say — do not try to hide sad things or make them feel better when they are going through hardship.

6. Give attention when they need it

Every person also has their own special moments of importance in their lives. Sometimes, it’s best that you give your attention to your siblings when they are about to go through something big or want to share their thoughts. You should give them the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings with you.

7. Helping with household chores

In the event that you’re the one who is providing for your family, there should be a system of chores that you assign to your siblings. This way, they will learn how to take care of their things and everyone can move on without having to struggle as we do with our lives.

8. Never make fun of them

Many people might have experienced being bullied in their childhood. But some siblings tend to bully their own sibling — and this will not help them grow. If a sibling is being bullied, talk to the parents about it and ask for help. They should respect each other and always speak to each other in a positive manner without making fun of the others’ weaknesses.

9. Never be afraid to express your feelings

Siblings should never be afraid of expressing their feelings about an issue that bothers them through words or actions. It is never a good thing to keep your feelings locked up inside, because it can lead to depression, anxiety or even worse.

10. Be there for each other

Siblings should always be there for each other. When someone older in the family does something bad to you or is abusive toward you, your siblings should always be there for you when you need it — not just when you want it. They should be your best friends and talk to them about anything that makes you sad or angry.

Family is the place where we all live together and grow up together. Even though we become adults and leave our parents’ home, they are still there to guide us in life. They will always be with us through thick and thin — as long as we will be willing to forgive them.

Happy family is the best family that is made up of people who are loved unconditionally. Their bond will be unbreakable until the end of time, because love is indeed a miracle in itself.

We all have different personalities and different ways of doing things. We all have our own freedom to choose what we want to do. Everyone has the right to live with their own conscience.

As adults, we should accept each other’s differences and leave the past behind us. Everyone has something good to bring to the table, and we should not judge anyone based on what they have done in the past. Any bad behavior that we commit is only a part of our lives and does not define us as people. We just need to learn from our mistakes, but never be afraid to make mistakes again — because that’s what life is all about.