Families tend to be more happy and successful when they have shared values and goals. Each family's goals and values may be somewhat different. The important thing is for families, especially marital partners, to think through, discuss, and agree upon what values will guide their lives. Having shared values and goals creates unity. It also becomes a source of strength that is vital as families encounter problems and crises.
Values guide our most basic decisions, and provide a standard to follow.
The decisions that we make, the way we use our time, and the things we spend money on are all influenced by the values that we have. Making decisions about work and family life can be facilitated by identifying key values and setting goals that reflect those values. It is critical to identify what really matters to you and then set goals that help you spend time, energy, and money on those things that are truly important. Sometimes we give time or effort to things that will bring the least reward in terms of what we really value. This can be avoided by identifying your values and then evaluating whether your goals reflect those values.