Prioritising Family Relationships: Why Investing in Family Activities Should Be a Top Priority

In Singapore, many of us lead busy lives with packed schedules and hectic workloads. With limited free time, we often opt for convenience and comfort over spending quality time with our loved ones. We spend more money on taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab, rather than investing in family activities that bring us closer together.

According to a survey by the National Family Council, Singaporeans spend an average of $1,000 per month on taxi and ride-hailing services. In contrast, the same survey found that Singaporeans spend an average of just $250 per month on family activities.

This stark difference in spending highlights the need to rethink our priorities and invest more in our family relationships.

One reason for this imbalance is our expectation that family activities should be cheap or even free.

We often assume that spending quality time with our loved ones shouldn't come with a price tag, and as a result, we don't allocate enough budget for these activities. However, when it comes to food and entertainment outside, we don't mind paying exorbitant prices.

This mindset is problematic as it reflects a lack of priority for our family relationships. We need to realise that investing in our family relationships is just as important as investing in other aspects of our lives, such as our careers or hobbies. When we prioritise our family, we create a stronger support system that can help us weather any storms that life may bring.

Moreover, spending quality time with our loved ones has many benefits beyond just bonding. Family activities can be an excellent stress-reliever, a source of joy and happiness, and an opportunity to learn new things and create memories that will last a lifetime.

To prioritise family over expenses, we need to start by setting aside money every month for family activities.

This could be as simple as allocating a portion of our monthly budget towards a family meal or a weekend outing. We could also plan regular family vacations or weekend getaways to explore new places and experiences together.

While it may seem challenging to find the time and budget for family activities, the benefits of doing so far outweigh the costs.

By prioritising our family relationships, we create a happier and healthier home environment, strengthen our emotional bonds, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, prioritising family over expenses is essential for a fulfilling and happy life.

We need to shift our mindset and invest in our family relationships by allocating sufficient budget and time for family activities. While it may require some sacrifice and planning, the rewards of doing so are immeasurable. So let's make an effort to prioritize our family, create happy memories, and build a stronger support system that can help us navigate the ups and downs of life.