The importance of strong families and the impact they have on the quality of life in communities and the nation are becoming more obvious every day. The home sets up a pattern that spills over into all other aspects of our society. There are things you can do to help strengthen your family and to help promote the personal growth of each family member. Dr. Nick Stinnet, expert in family life who retired from the University of Nebraska, identified characteristics of successful families in his Family Strengths Research Project. The patterns found to be important included mutual appreciation , quality time , effective communication , commitment , and religious orientation .
Family members tell each other they are special.
In the hurry of daily responsibilities, we often forget the importance of letting people know how much they are appreciated. It's so easy to take each other for granted, especially in families. It's not my birthday or a special occasion but a time when it's unexpected. It's really a surprise and makes me feel so special. The need to be appreciated is a basic human need.