How to have a happy family?

Sounds simple right?! As simple as it sounds; it is indeed a tough task to achieve that picture perfect happy family that smiles together in the billboards and magazines. Most of you have an ideal situation in mind where you are wise parents who are able to deal with almost all calamities calmly. Although, in real life all families have their own set of inadequacies, flaws and some unsolvable issues, a lot can still be achieved in terms of creating a stable, and safe atmosphere at home.

Here are some steps you can take:

1)Tell your children about your family history

When your children know the stories of people who came before them, they generally have a higher sense of control over their lives and high self-esteem. Have dinner table conversations, about their forefathers. Research shows that children who were told about how their elders overcame a business difficulty or ups and downs in the family, considered their families to be better functioning and hence the higher levels of self-esteem and an integrational self. They had the understanding that they belonged to something that was bigger than their own self.

2)Reduce stress

In a survey to kids, it was asked what their one wish about their parents was? No, it was not to spend more time with parents; they wished that their parents are less stressed and tired. Stress, of parents, weakens kids brains, decreases their immunity, makes them obese, more prone to mental illness, allergies, tooth problems, and allergies too.

3)Have meals together

If you have meals together,  your children have fewer chances of getting addicted to alcohol, drugs, or smoke. They will also have lesser chances of getting pregnant, commit suicide or have eating disorders. In addition, they will have a better vocabulary, good manners, healthier diets, and higher self-esteem. Eating meals together will also ensure your children getting better grades and less behavioral issues.

4)Maintain a power hierarchy

Make sure everyone knows their place in the family, though a hierarchy of power seems like an old idea. It is a good idea to let children have some say in family issues, but you as parents should not lose your footing in order to do excessive justice to this idea. You as parents should hold a firm but kind authority and do not get too indulged with the idea of happiness; have a firm boundary and do not let them blur. When everyone knows their place you can relax about other things.

Do not worry if you cannot be perfect and are not able to implement all of these; remember that no family can be airbrushed like in pictures but always try to do your best. One step at a time is good enough for a happy family!

Learn more About Dr Prerna Kohli