Lessons from My Mom

We all go through life living by certain rules, and probably, as importantly, by having a “built-in” understanding of the right way to do things. The “right way” isn’t written down, and no one has sat you down and had “the conversation” laying out all the rules at one time: you just have an understanding of the lessons you grew up with. As I’ve been putting this book together, I’ve been reflecting on some of those lessons, and I realize they came to me primarily from my mom—and through her, from my grandma. They were both working women at a time when not all that many women worked outside the home. And from them I have learned a lot:

• • Feelings matter.
  • Character is doing what’s right when no one is looking.
  • The good things in life are meant to be shared.
  • A positive attitude is a powerful tool.
  • Kindness is key.
  • We must leave things better for people who will follow us.
  • Credibility is absolutely everything. If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.
  • I can’t change other people no matter how right I am or how hard I try; I can only change myself.
  • No matter how tough it gets, stand tall and handle it with dignity and grace.
  • Showing vulnerability will bring people closer, and people are more likely to trust you.
  • You can be feminine, fun, silly, and a best friend at the same time the world recognizes all your success.
  • Be grateful for all you have—never guilty.
  • Love your family above all else.