2025 – A Year to Prioritize Family
The New Year is a perfect opportunity to set fresh goals. For some, it’s a time to reset; for others, it’s a chance to refine or continue building on past aspirations. Many parents feel guilty about not spending enough time with their children or not being fully present when they do. But the beauty of the New Year is that it gives us another chance to try again.
So, here’s a challenge: make 2025 the year you prioritize your family. Someone once said, “With young children, the days are long, but the years are short.” While these early years may be the most physically demanding phase of your life, they are also fleeting and deeply significant. The time you invest now will yield priceless returns for generations.
Consider this: 50% of the time you’ll spend with your children is over by the age of six, and 75% by the age of 12. Once they become teenagers, even if they live at home, they’ll naturally grow more independent. The moments you have with your children today are irreplaceable, so make them count.
5 Simple Ways to Be Intentional with Your Time
- Put Your Phone Aside
Phones are one of the biggest distractions. Instead of defaulting to having your phone always within reach, set specific times for phone use. Create a space to leave your phone and schedule times to check notifications or scroll. Let your family become your default focus rather than your device. - Plan a Family Holiday
Holidays with young children may require extra effort, but they create lasting memories and strengthen bonds. Plan your trip at the start of the year, mark it on your calendar, and make it a priority. - Schedule Special One-on-One Time
Make it a weekly habit to spend exclusive time with each child. Whether it’s a walk, a meal at their favorite spot, or playing a game, let them choose the activity and make this a non negotiable slot in your calendar. You’ll see the difference it makes to your child! - Give Your Best Mind Space
Often, our family gets the leftover bits of our energy, but imagine how much more meaningful time together could be if we planned to give them our best. For example, if your family time is mostly in the evening after work, try taking a quick shower to refresh yourself so you can be more present and engaged. If mornings are your main family time, consider going to bed earlier so you wake up feeling rested and cheerful rather than tired and irritable. Another idea is to take a short nap while your child is napping or at school, so you’re energized and ready to enjoy time together when they wake up or return home. These small changes can make a big difference in the quality of the moments you share. - Create a Family Devotion Time
Set aside 10 minutes daily to connect as a family. Share highlights of your day, express gratitude, and, if spiritual, pray together. Keep it simple and relatable for young children to engage meaningfully.
As Oprah Winfrey wisely said, “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” Let 2025 be the year you cherish your family like never before. Your presence, time, and intentionality are the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones.
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