Stress is a natural and normal “by-product” of every family’s life. In fact, family stress can bring out the best of us; as we stretch to meet the challenges we face, we become better parents, our children blossom and our families grow. But too much stress can spiral our families in the other direction.
This is Set 2 of the Family Stress Test – Set 1 is in the next edition of the Stepping Up newsletter.
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So here we go….
Set 2
1. We acknowledge feelings, encourage their expression and allow time for dealing with the issues these feelings raise.
2. We plan time for family activities. We also eat together at least once every day.
3. If a step/blended family, we maintain and nurture biological parent-child relationships and let new relationships develop in their own time.
4. I feel confident in my role as a parent.
5. Our family easily maintains a sense of humour and playfulness.
6. Family priorities take precedence over work.
7. I know what’s important to my kids.
8. When issues arise that we get stuck on, we ask for help from other family members, support groups, community-based programs, clergy and/or a family professional.
9. We have enough money for the important things.
10. Everyone in the family has responsibilities around the house and does them without being nagged.
Combine this set with Set 1 and if you have answered “true” more often in the first set than in the second set, you may want to seek help lowering the stress level of your family. Families that communicate about problems, who face issues as they arise, who support one another and seek help when it is needed, can build strong bonds among themselves, nurture a healthy and loving family and have a lot more fun doing it!
Author’s content used under license, (c) 2008 Claire Communications
