Starting something big, like a business or any major goal, takes real commitment. In the story of Todd Graves, Raising Cane’s founder, we see what true dedication looks like. Graves worked 90-hour weeks to launch his first restaurant, and even as he grew a billion-dollar empire, he kept one thing clear: his family mattered. It didn’t look like a conventional balance, but by setting family-centered goals, he created a structure that kept his loved ones close—even during the busiest times. This is a powerful reminder that “normal” doesn’t need to follow anyone else’s rules.

Why Setting Family Goals Matters:

Graves’ story highlights a truth for all families: when you have clear goals, you can make them work with even the busiest of schedules. For Graves, this meant configuring his days to ensure family time, even if that meant his wife bringing the kids to his office for dinner or him working early mornings on vacations. By making family a priority, Graves wasn’t just creating a business—he was building a life that reflected his values.

This approach is a testament to the power of setting your own version of “normal.” Family goals give us direction and purpose, helping us make intentional choices to prioritize what’s most important, even when life gets hectic.

Personal Story on Setting Intentional Goals:

Reflecting on my own journey, I can relate to the balancing act Graves describes. I remember times when I had to think creatively to make sure my family stayed connected and engaged, no matter how packed our schedules were. Sometimes, this meant family dinners became our non-negotiable, even if it meant adjusting work hours. We all benefited from these intentional moments, and they grounded us in our values, bringing consistency even in chaos.

Parenting Tips for Defining Your Family’s Normal:

1. Identify Your Core Values: Ask yourselves what matters most as a family. Is it regular family time, open communication, or something else? Let your goals be shaped by these values.
2. Get Creative with Family Time: Like Graves, find ways to keep your family close. Maybe it’s setting specific times for connection or adjusting schedules to be together—even for small moments.
3. Set Boundaries Around Key Priorities: Carve out space for things that align with your goals. Whether it’s a regular family dinner or a weekly activity, be clear about what’s essential.
4. Delegate and Release Control: Part of keeping balance is knowing when to let go and trust others to handle certain responsibilities. This can allow you to stay focused on what matters most, without getting overwhelmed by every detail.
5. Revisit and Adjust Goals as Needed: Family goals are flexible. Life changes, so revisit your priorities regularly to ensure they’re serving everyone well.

Outcome/Benefits:

Families that define their own “normal” experience a sense of purpose and connection that can’t be found by following someone else’s rules. By aligning family life with our core values, we create a supportive, intentional environment that helps everyone thrive.

As we head into a new season, let’s take a moment to think about our family’s unique “normal.” Embracing our own goals and values will help us create an intentional family life, one that reflects who we truly are.

For more inspiration, check out this article on how Todd Graves built a business while staying connected to his family’s goals. Link here

For Your Family’s Success,
Sunny