Creating Culture: What do you call your people?
What do you use: “Hey team!” “Hello gang!” Whats up tribe?”
We choose to use “Family”
At Bella, we intentionally use the word "family" to describe our team. This choice is not just a sentimental gesture—it reflects our deep commitment to care for one another as Christ calls us to. While the word "family" is polarizing in business principles, we embrace it because it aligns with our mission, values, and the Biblical truths that guide us.
The Polarizing Nature of "Family" in Business
In the business world, the term "family" can be controversial. Critics argue that using "family" in a professional setting can blur boundaries, lead to unhealthy dynamics, or imply an expectation of unquestioning loyalty. They warn that families, while loving, are not immune to dysfunction—miscommunication, unmet expectations, and favoritism are just as common in families as in teams.
However, at Bella, we see the concept of family differently. While we acknowledge the risks, we believe that the idea of family, when rooted in Scripture and guided by clear boundaries, is a powerful and life-giving framework for how we interact as a team.
The World’s Attack on Family
In today’s culture, the concept of family is under constant attack. The world seeks to redefine, diminish, and even fracture the family unit, undermining its God-given purpose as the foundation of society. This cultural shift inevitably spills over into workplaces, where the idea of treating colleagues as “family” is often dismissed as impractical, naïve, or problematic.
At Bella, we reject this narrative. Just as we stand firm in defending the sanctity of the family in the home, we stand firm in fostering a family culture at work—a culture rooted in Christ’s call to love, nurture, and uplift one another. By striving to create wholeness in the lives of our team and the people we serve, we are taking back what the world has tried to destroy. This is not just about healing bodies or building a business; it’s about restoring souls, reclaiming the beauty of God’s design, and bringing more people into the eternal family of Heaven.
Family as a Biblical Concept
Scripture frequently uses the metaphor of family to describe the relationships God desires among His people. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we are called to love, serve, and support one another with the same devotion and care we offer our families.
“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:10)
“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.” (Ephesians 2:19)
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
At Bella, we see our work not just as a job, but as a calling. We care for one another deeply, celebrating victories, walking through struggles, and shouldering burdens together. This commitment reflects the family of God we are called to embody.
Boundaries and the Realities of Family
Using the term "family" does not mean we overlook the realities of dysfunction or the importance of boundaries. Just as a healthy family establishes clear roles, expectations, and accountability, so must a thriving team. At Bella:
We embrace healthy conflict, accountability, and transparency to address dysfunction rather than ignore it.
We set boundaries to ensure that care for one another does not compromise professionalism or mission-driven excellence.
We value each person’s individuality while focusing on our shared purpose, avoiding a slippery slope of imbalance.
Family Means We Truly Care
What sets the word "family" apart is its emphasis on care. In many workplaces, relationships are transactional, defined by what individuals contribute to the organization. At Bella, we reject that approach. Family means:
We are invested in one another’s well-being beyond professional success.
We support one another through challenges, both in work and in life.
We see our mission not as something we accomplish alone, but as a team united by love and purpose.
Called to Love as Christ Did
Christ Himself modeled this kind of familial care among His disciples, calling them friends and laying down His life for them. He invites us to do the same:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34)
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13)
By using the word "family," we are affirming our commitment to love one another sacrificially, to support each other in fulfilling our mission, and to glorify God in all that we do.