Focus on the Family Strengthening Marriage Podcast You’ll Want More Time with Your Family
Jan 15, 2026
In this conversation with Jerry Jenkins, an accomplished author, he shares his insights on prioritizing family time. He introduces his concept of creating 'hedges' around family moments to protect them from distractions. Jenkins emphasizes that children thrive on both quantity and quality time, revealing common regrets parents have about neglecting family. He also discusses setting boundaries at work and the importance of accountability among men in maintaining family connections. It's never too late to start repairing relationships, according to Jenkins.
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Regret Follows Misplaced Priorities
- People often prioritize temporal accomplishments over family and later feel deep regret.
- Erin Smalley says recognizing misplaced focus commonly brings grief and longing for lost time.
Five Interviews That Changed A Life
- Jerry Jenkins interviewed five older men and they all regretted not spending more time with their children.
- He used that pattern to decide to be home with his kids every evening from their birth onward.
Create A Time Hedge Around Family
- Do set clear boundaries (hedges) around family time, like not working after dinner.
- Jerry Jenkins says being home nightly warmed his marriage and strengthened his kids' relationship with their dad.
