Sept. 1, 2025

How Intentional Family Living Creates the Life You Really Want

Have you ever felt the nudge to live more intentionally—but weren’t sure how to actually do it as a busy parent? In our podcast episode, HOW TO CREATE THE LIFE YOU REALLY WANT FOR YOUR FAMILY, we share why intentional family living matters, how to choose the “harder but better” path, and simple steps to move closer to your ideal. This post complements and expands that conversation. And if you haven’t read it yet, you’ll also find encouragement in How We Raised 7 Well-Adjusted Kids - Without Yelling, Tantrums, Punishments or Power Struggles.

From Drifting to Deliberate: Designing Your Family Life on Purpose

Start with the person in the mirror.

Extraordinary families are built on extraordinary individuals.

It begins with you—your mindset, your habits, your courage to take the next right step.

Personal growth isn’t selfish; it’s preparation.

When you grow, you bring more wisdom, patience, and presence to your marriage and your kids.

From Control to Connection.

We don’t “fix” society by sacrificing our family on the altar of busyness or public approval.

We strengthen society by strengthening the unit—marriage first, then family.

Connection beats control every time.

When your home is stable, lit-up, and purpose-driven, your impact radiates outward.

The “Higher Way” is harder—and worth it.

Homeschooling?

Shifting careers?

Working from home?

Saying no to anti-family systems?

It’s more work, more responsibility, and more growth.

That’s why most people won’t do it.

But the reward is deeper: more time together, better alignment with your values, and kids who thrive.

You don’t need a leap—just a step.

Maybe full-time travel or total lifestyle redesign isn’t realistic today.

That’s okay.

Ask, “What’s one step that moves us closer?”

Adjust a work schedule one afternoon a week for family time.
Start a nightly read-aloud or walk together.
Learn one new skill that edges you toward location flexibility.
Become more involved in your child’s education—today, not “someday.”

Stop outsourcing your dreams.

If you wouldn’t choose your current lifestyle as your dream, don’t let default settings choose for you.

Replace “I can’t” with “How could we?”

Then get practical: lists, timelines, skill-building, and tiny experiments that stack into momentum.

Mentorship Isn’t Control—It’s Connection.

Parents aren’t drill sergeants; we’re guides.

Prioritize time with your children, mentoring them in character, curiosity, and contribution. Presence is the ultimate parenting strategy.

The Goal Is Lifelong Relationship.

Every deliberate decision—how you work, learn, live, and love—should serve this end: a strong marriage and a thriving relationship with your children for life.

That’s the real measure of success.