The Freedom to Think Independently
Each person should have the freedom to his or her own opinion. Learning to think independently and agree to disagree is vital to the development of self-esteem and positive self-worth.
The Freedom to Question Respectfully
Questioning is a natural expression of freedom and marks healthy interaction between people. If done respectfully, questioning leads to beneficial conversation and teachable moments.
The Freedom to Confront Safely
A safe confrontation is one where both parties understand from the beginning that, regardless of the outcome, their relationship will be preserved. Healthy families confront safely.
The Freedom to Relax Completely
Families naturally spend much of their non-work & non-school hours together. Allowing each person to relax without the pressure of unspoken expectations is healthy.
The Freedom to Experience Fully
Our closest relationships are the ones we consider to be the most “real”. Healthy families learn to appreciate and encourage each members natural uniqueness.
The Freedom to Attempt Fearlessly
Success and failure are often separated more by confidence than competence. Members of healthy families know that, regardless of the outcome, they are supported in any endeavor.
The Freedom to Support Openly
Members of healthy families openly support one another. As a result, they feel no need to compete for affection, approval, favor, or status. Open support strongly encourages personal freedom.
The Freedom to Contribute Generously
Encouraging family members to freely determine their own contributions of time, talent and treasure helps avoid “fair share” mentality and allows generosity to bring its own rewards.
The Freedom to Dream Boundlessly
Futures are built upon a foundation of dreams. Encouraging members to dream without boundaries, allows a healthy family to become a supportive solution instead of an obstacle.
The Freedom to Play Innocently
Too often, adults set aside the play skills they learn as children fearing the opinions of others. Innocent play is a powerful and honest interaction. Remembering to play is remembering to live.
The Freedom to Limit Carefully
Families often feel that they are “missing out” or “falling behind” by placing limits on demands for their time, talent, and treasure. Carefully prioritizing and limiting ourselves teaches self-control.
The Freedom to Speak Truthfully
Complete honesty is rarely easy, enjoyable, or effortless. However, healthy families understand that truth is the foundation for all loving communication.
