10 Life Lessons I’ve Learned from My Mom

My mom is the best. And truthfully, I hope each of us can say that about our own. But really, she is. And today just happens to be  her birthday! Born on Mother’s Day, it usually falls right around the holiday, making it even more special.

In celebration of Mother’s Day this weekend, I thought I’d share the best things I’ve learned  from my mom thus far. I mean it’s kind of hard to pick just 10, and there are sooo many others, but let’s start with these, this year.

1. Be kind. To everyone no matter what. Smile, be nice and move on. Unless it’s a guy who’s treating you shitty – then, tell him like it is, and still move on. This advice has gotten me the furthest, and I feel like I could probably do a bit better job of following it lately.
2. Shop smart. My mom is the most frugal woman I know an she he can stretch a dollar like no other.  And when something is on sale, she always stocks up. (Hence the reason why I go to three different stores…)
3. Live within your means. This one is probably the most important lesson I’ve learned from my parents. You’ve got to learn how to take care of yourself, and enjoy life, on the income  you’re on. That mindset is all I’ve ever known, but the older I get the more I realize how common it is that people don’t do that.
4. Send hand written cards. For all, and any, occasions. Birthdays, anniversaries, new homes. And always have a few stashed away at home. Sadly, I did not inherit my mom’s impressive cursive handwriting.
5. Air dry your clothes. You’ll avoid shrinkage and they’ll last longer. (And now that I live with shared laundry, it’s cheaper!)
6. Always cook too much food. You never how many people will show up, or just how hungry they’ll be. And there’s nothing wrong with leftovers.
7. Give to others. Gifts, hand-me-downs, cookies, a plant. Anything you can. Show others you care by doing something nice.
8. Never put your purse in a shopping cart. …In that seat thing where a toddler would normally go. Next thing you know you go to grab a box of Cheerios and your wallet’s gone.
9. Be grateful. My mom has a great way of putting things into perspective. She often reminds me that my petty complaints are pretty minimal to the struggles of others. And that I should never forget how fortunate I am to have all that I do – whether that be a job, an apartment or groceries.
10. Be content. Another piece of advice I should take more often. She always reminds me to never get wrapped up in what I don’t have or what I haven’t done yet.  No matter where your life is at or headed, it’s all about enjoying the ride and finding  peace at every step in the journey.

Thanks for always teaching me, Mom. (And for also being the one person who I know will always read this blog.) Love you!

What have you learned from your mom? And if you’re a mom yourself, happy Mother’s Day to you!