Making a Mission Statement to Make a Healthy Family.
Studies show that successful businesses start with a mission; a set of standards and ideals that orient each person on a team toward a common set of goals. Let’s take Apple Inc., arguably one of the most successful businesses and makers of the iPhones & iPad, for example. Their mission is quite simple…
Apple designs Macs, the best personal computers in the world, along with OS X, iLife, iWork and professional software. Apple leads the digital music revolution with its iPods and iTunes online store. Apple has reinvented the mobile phone with its revolutionary iPhone and App store, and is defining the future of mobile media and computing devices with iPad.
So, how can we apply a Mission Statement like Apple’s, into our home to aid in the health and success of our family? Start by outlining the following points.
1. What is our family story?
A story contains characters (your family), history, present, and future. Take a moment and reflect on where you’ve been, where you are, and where you want to be as a family. Mirror this in your mission.
Ask: What do we want to be known for?
2. What does your family do? How does it do it? How will we treat one another?
Perhaps this is a list of expectations or traits that each member will adhere to or strive to maintain.
Ask: How will we relate inside of our home? How will we relay our story to each other?
3. How will we treat others? How will we better community? How can we better the world?
Ask: How will we, as a family, relate outside of our home? How will we relay our story to others (friends, community, world)?
Your mission can be broad, specific, or a creative combination of the two. Collaboration is Key!
Remember, just as in your family, Steve Jobs did not work alone. He was not the sole creator of Apple’s Mission. Involve each member of the family to reflect upon and have input in your shared Mission Statement.
Missions are Malleable
Apple was founded in 1976. Their Mission has changed multiple times to reflect the climate of our culture and their company. Just like Apple, your family will meet challenges and circumstances that may alter your mission. Don’t be afraid to revisit this mission often and make alterations as needed.
References:
How to Write a Mission Statement in 5 Easy Steps
Apple Inc.’s Mission Statement and Vision Statement (An Analysis)
A graduate of Evangelical Seminary’s accredited Marriage and Family Therapy program and recipient of Rev. and Mrs. Alfred J. Corby Award for academic excellence exemplary competency in marriage and family therapy, Bethanie is a pre-licensed professional who desires to see reconciliation and health in relationships.