The Importance of Spending Time with Family

In today's day and age, we are consistently running from function to function that we don't even have time for ourselves some times. The kids need to go to soccer practice, we have to go to doctor's appointments, and then of course there are school functions and a lot more. Add to that the distractions of cell phones, blackberries, computers, junk mail, television and who knows what else, and before you know it we aren't even connecting with the family in our own house. Family members become distance and almost unfamily like.

This is a really bad habit to fall into. We need times with our family and they need time with us. Here's what you get out of being with your family and vice versa:

Children that feel loved. If you are forever shuffling the kids around to other places just so you can get things done, the kids eventually can feel neglected and lonely. But spend some time with them one-on-one and they'll know they are loved. And don't just flop down in front of the TV with them. Go for a bike ride with them, go get ice cream and talk, take them to play in the park - you get the idea.

Your marriage becomes stronger. A marriage is a very important relationship and your husband or wife is one of your most important family members. You need to rely on each other, strengthen each other and be a really great companion. If one spouse goes in one direction and the other spouse does in another direction on a regular basis, your relationship is going to suffer. You'll end up being like strangers. Take some to be with the kids (if you have kids!) but don't forget to spend some alone time together too. Make a special date like when you were dating. Get dressed up and go some where you haven't been in a while. Revisit the restaurant you went to on your first date, go to the movies or take in a sporting event if that is your thing. Whatever you do, do it together and pick something that you both like to make both spouses happy.

You are enriching each other. Each family member has something to special to offer that makes them unique. Spending time with each family members broadens your horizons. You get to experience the things that they like to do that you might not do on your own. For example, because I spent time with my husband, I was encouraged to go snorkeling which I was too afraid to do on my own. With his influence, I gave it a try and was introduced to a world of beautiful colorful fish in the Caribbean. I would have missed out on that wonderful experience which I've seen done numerous times since the first time, if I had been cooped up by myself, lost in my own world. So spend time with your kids and other family members and be open to their interest and others involved in their lives. It will enrich you greatly.

Start spending more time with your family today. You don't know the wonderful affects that it has on your family and yourself until you do it.