I really like the TV show “Blue Bloods.” It stars Tom Selleck, one of the Whalberg brothers and some other folks who have great screen presence. It’s also fast moving and thoughtful at the same time, and because most of the family members are in law enforcement, they do “business” together. Because of that, the theme of each show usually deals with some element of a family dynamic.
In fact, in every episode there is a scene where the family has a meal together. During these meals, as most meals do, the conversation starts out lightly and without an agenda; but before long the subject turns to something more
serious, and most often to a challenge that several family members are encountering personally or professionally.
Maybe not at that meal, but at some point during the show that issue is resolved.
Now, I understand that it’s show business, but there is something to this.
Even without a planned agenda, conversation builds relationships. People get to know one another, have an
understanding of one another, or have a feel for what is challenging
someone. If there is a problem, they may
even be able to brainstorm a bit when they are not rushed to be someplace else,
or be willing to take the time in a quiet moment to help a colleague, or family member, out. Minimally, you can relax,
laugh and put your work aside while enjoying good company.
My theory is that “the family that eats together works better together.” (OK, that’s a little corny, but you get my point.) Eating meals together can be a good way to improve communications.