What is Family Culture? A Definition

“Strong culture” is one of those buzzwords we hear tied to workplaces, but what does it mean for families? A family culture is shared identity, beliefs, and behaviors, but translating that into a culture that brings unity and joy is the key challenge for many. Just like a workplace, culture takes intentionality. It is not something you can leave alone and it will keep growing. In fact, the opposite is usually true that a neglected family culture will lead to more problems.

If your family wants to understand what family culture is and begin applying to these concepts, let’s start by unpacking the definition of family culture.

What Is Family Culture - Shared Identity

One of the first keys of family culture starts with a shared identity. At a fundamental level, we all need a place to belong, and an identity as a family provides this. It gives us information about who we are, where we have come from, and who we hope to be. Sometimes that identity is the place where culture needs to change to tell a new story and to bring redemption into what that identity previously was.

Can you articulate with your family the key themes of your family’s identity? Or maybe you need to identify what needs to change from your family’s identity. Perhaps, an old story has told the narrative for too long and your family needs to step into new components of that identity.

What Is Family Culture - Shared Beliefs

What you believe as a family sets the tone for culture because your beliefs set a course for how you live. They should have a very practical, tangible impact on your culture as they guide decisions and priorities. It is one thing to know what you believe but where culture starts is how those beliefs shape action.

What are your core beliefs or convictions that most influence what you will do or not do as a family?

What Is Family Culture - Shared Behaviors

The behaviors and rhythms you have as a family are where culture really comes to life. Behaviors define how you interact with one another and how you build stronger bonds. They are the core actions that bring you all closer together, the things you return to over and over. Think about the traits you would want to describe your family.

What would your family link arms in?

Why Defining Your Family Culture Matters

Even in small actions, your intentionality can have a generational impact, which is why defining your family culture matters. The beautiful thing about culture too is that it can and should adapt through different seasons of a family, so it is always a place where your family can contribute and be engaged. Creating a place of shared belonging and purpose makes it that much easier to instill values and pass on what matters.

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Check out this in depth blog about Practical Family Culture Examples.