Is Your Family Culture Thriving or Just Surviving?
Every family has its way of solving problems, achieving goals, and staying connected. Like in business, family culture is either created by default—shaped by circumstances and the habits of its members—or built with intention.
There was a time when our busy schedule dictated the culture of our home. We often said, “Let’s just get through this week.” Our days felt frantic, always running late, always restless. And once we made it through one overwhelming week, another just like it was waiting around the corner.
We sincerely wanted to live well, but we felt stuck. Busyness defined us. We had great intentions but little follow-through, a calendar full of the “right things” but no real fulfillment or connection as a family.
A thriving family culture does not happen by accident. It must be built.
When left to chance, family culture tends to be mediocre—because people, especially children, naturally take the path of least resistance. As parents, we must decide what we want our family to look like and commit to shaping it with consistency and purpose.
When you build culture intentionally, you set your family up for success. You give your children a greater sense of belonging and the excitement of being part of something bigger than themselves.
We often hear, “It is what it is. There’s not much I can do to change things.” But that’s not true. As parents, we hold immense power in shaping the kind of life we live. If we don’t take control, our family’s culture will be created by default—without our input.
How do you cultivate the culture you want for your family?
The first step is to assess where you are. Ask yourself: Am I creating my family’s culture, or is it being created without me? If you’re unsure, this quick quiz can help.
10-Second Family Culture Quiz
Answer Yes or No to the following:
Our family rarely spends quality time together.
We have so many individual interests that it’s hard to find things we all enjoy.
I have important values but don’t have time to focus on them—let alone include my family.
I feel powerless over my time and commitments.
Others often comment that our schedule is too packed.
Time is flying by, and my children don’t have the character I had hoped for.
I sometimes wonder if my kids, marriage, or family will be okay.
Everyone is doing their own thing, and I worry about staying connected.
We’re losing the battle against outside influences that don’t reflect our values.
I’m unsure what kind of legacy I’ll leave behind.
Your Results:
8-10 “Yes” Answers: What are you waiting for? It’s time to take back control of your family!
5-7 “Yes” Answers: With a few intentional changes, you can transform your family’s direction.
0-4 “Yes” Answers: Amazing! You’re on the right track—keep going!
A strong, healthy family culture isn’t built overnight. It takes daily, intentional effort—but it’s absolutely worth it. If we can do it, so can you.
A healthy culture isn’t created overnight. It requires a daily investment of time but is definitely worth the effort. If we could do it then so can you!