How Is Managing a Family Like Managing a Business?

"Running a family is much like running a business. No matter how warm and wonderful your family, if you don't use your heads, take counsel, and work together, you may eventually suffer seperately." This quote by from Raymond and Dorothy Moore and taken from the book Minding Your Own Business: A Common Sense Guide to Home Management and Industry

At first it may seem strange to compare running a family to running a business. It may seem a little cold, and, well, business-like. But there are some very valid comparisons that can be made and learned from in this statement.

Often when we think of family we our thoughts are a little more in the warm and fuzzy line. We imagine nice little outings, supportive relationships full of laughter and love. We think of families sitting around the table together enjoying a nutritious meal and good conversation. These are all good ideas, good goals. But they will not happen without some common sense, planning and hard work.

As we work towards achieving these goals there are some things to consider. Each person in the family is a seperate individual, with individual strengths, weaknesses, interests, likes and dislikes. Each ones has personal quirks and foibles.

There is also the reality of real life responsibilities - jobs, extended family, community obligations, personal needs, health issues, and work at home that needs to be done.

So what are some ways to follow this sage advice from Raymond and Dorothy Moore?

Use Your Head

Think about each individual's personality and current situation. What are this person's contributions to the family? Are these contributions being recognized and acknowledged? What are the needs of this individual? Are they being met? What are this individual's strengths and talents? Are they being utilized for the development of the individual and the good of the family?

Take Counsel

Learn from those who have gone before you - both from their successes and their failures. Read and listen to the words of those who have made careful study of successful families and wise practices. Ask questions. There's is certainly nothing wrong with asking a question or admitting there is a problem and finding a solution for that problem. Add to your store of knowledge before there is a problem and find yourself forearmed.

Work Together

Make sure each person understands that they are a very important part of the success of the family. Involve everyone in the discussion and planning. Family Meetings are a great way to give each person a chance to have a voice in family matters. Make sure each person feels heard and understood. If necessary, implement a schedule, make a plan. Any problems or concerns that are brought up in a family meeting need to be addressed in some way, even if simply to promise to look for an answer or solution. Respectfully acknowledge the opinions, thoughts and feelings of each one who contributes to the discussion. Also, have a little fun while everyone working together.