One of the greatest challenges that beginning entrepreneurs face is learning to balance their work life with their family life. When you are passionate about your work, it seems like there is always something more you can do for it. More time you can put into it. But, it is also important that you remember the people in your life who make all your efforts worthwhile. Most likely, these are the people who motivate you to work in the first place; the people whose lives depend upon your success.
So, how can you keep your family functioning as a healthy, happy unit? It turns out that one of the simplest ways to promote both physical and emotional wellness for your entire family can be found right in your own home: Research has clearly shown that the practice of sitting down for a regular family meal has an abundance of positive effects on the entire family. And though it may appear to be a bit of a lost art, it is actually very simple to get back into the dinner groove.
So Little Time
When you are starting up your own business, it can be hard enough to make time to find something for yourself to eat, let alone to think about preparing a meal for your family. And, with today's competitive kids being more and more involved in extracurricular the family dinner is a thing of the past.
But it doesn't have to be this way. In fact, preparing nutritious meals your whole family can enjoy may be easier than you think. Once you appreciate how important it is to your family--and your business--you'll see how easy it is to get on board.
More Than A Meal
Sharing a meal is about so much more than curbing your hunger; it's a great way to slow down and engage with important people in your life. It provides an opportunity to check in with our loved ones, to listen to them, and to share with them your own ideals and aspirations. And while it may not appear to you that your kids are listening, recent studies suggest otherwise.
Love Is Nutritious / Nutrition Is Love
Home-cooked meals can also be a much healthier alternative to most of the food we tend to grab on the go. Made from real ingredients, not freeze-dried simulations, a well-prepared family dinner can provide the simple solution to allergies, obesity, depression and many other problems that can affect your children.
Plan Your Meal Before You Shop
Remember, you are cooking for the family, so take some time to think about what your kids like to eat. If they are picky eaters, try to get them to try something new each meal to broaden their palate. Keep your menu simple and don't go overboard with complicated side dishes. There are many good resources for preparing simple, nutritious meals available on the Internet and at your local bookstore.
Wholesome Foods
You are the gatekeeper of your growing children's bodies. If they have poor eating habits, it is your responsibility. So take command of the situation and ensure that what they eat is good for them.
Encourage Participation
Think of meals that your kids can help you prepare. Instead of frozen pizza, make your own pizza dough using your food processor or by hand. (it's not as difficult as you think!) If that's not your speed, stop by your local pizza parlor and ask if they'll sell you some of their fresh dough. Many local pizza parlor will do this. Then have your family roll it out and adorn it with their favorite toppings.
Follow Up Your Meal
Lastly, don't let your family fall into the eat-and-run habit. Just because the food is gone and the table is cleared doesn't mean you have to stop the fun. Let the meal set the tone for a family game, a brisk walk around the neighboor hood, a game of catch, a board game or any other social activity your family might enjoy.
Remember, eating with your family is about much more than just eating. It's about taking time to appreciated your life and all the people in it. So ring that dinner bell, gather your family around the table and enjoy yourselves!
