Things My Mom Taught Me That Have Helped Me Succeed

culled from:http://youqueen.com

The older I get, the more I realize how fortunate I am to have a mother like mine because there are a lot of people not as lucky. Some moms walk away, some are taken away and some are there, but only physically. No matter what circumstance robs a child of a mother, it’s sure to affect that child forever.
One of the primary roles a mother plays is that of teacher. Not only does she make sure you get a good education so that you have a great career, but she also teaches you how to succeed in life in general. What have I learned from my mom?

Live with Passion

My mom lives life. She doesn’t just go from day to day trying to survive. She aims to thrive by pursuing things that are enjoyable to her; things that bring her happiness. In fact, she is so involved in other activities, like social group meetings and having dinner with friends, that she certainly out-socializes me.
You have two options in life. Sit on the sidelines of life or play in the game. Find your passion, what makes you happy, and get out on the field. You can’t be MVP from the bench.

Work Hard

From the time I was a young child, my mom has worked her tail off. She put in long hours on her feet as a waitress and would wear a smile even when her feet and back ached so much that she knew her after-work idea of fun would consist of heating pads and elevating body parts.
This taught me that sometimes you have to push past the pain, mental or physical, to get where you want to be. Although it may be difficult at the time, your hard work and effort will pay off. The harder the battle, the sweeter the victory.

Be Willing to Step in and Help Others, Whether They Ask for It or Not

I swear my mom has this sixth sense that tells her that you need something. You don’t have to say a word, but before you know it, she’s right at your side helping you do whatever needs to be done.
Oftentimes people are afraid to ask for help. Either they’re embarrassed that they need it or pride gets in the way. Why make them ask when you can just jump in and help? They benefit from your assistance and you feel good because you did something selfless. You both win.

Get to Know People from all Walks of Life

Put my mom in a room full of strangers, and it won’t take her long to know everyone’s name and life story. It doesn’t matter if she’s at a black tie event or the local hole-in-the-wall pub, she can make a friend out of anyone.
The greater your social circle, the more well-rounded you are. Engage with people from all different backgrounds. Experience the world through their eyes. At a minimum, you’ll learn something new. Best case scenario, you’ll make a new friend.

Family Is more Than Just Blood

While many people are blessed with a great family, myself included, I learned at a young age that the boundaries of family can extend well beyond those that are given to us, to those that are chosen by us. Just because someone isn’t born into the family, doesn’t mean that they can’t be part of it.
My mom has had friends who became like my second mothers. I’ve brought people into my mom’s world that she has taken and treated as if they are her own. Family is whatever you decide it is, so don’t limit yourself.

Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks

At almost fifty years of age, my mother moved half-way across the world, leaving her life as she knew it behind in pursuit of happiness with the man she fell in love with, who is now my step-father.
When it comes to finding your happiness, sometimes it involves taking risks. But, if you’re willing to have faith and courage you can expand your life in ways you never dreamt possible.
The weird thing? Eight years after she moved overseas, I moved across the country to pursue my own love and happiness. Guess the fruit doesn’t fall far from the tree, huh?

Do What’s Right, no Matter how Hard It Is

After attempting to set our toys on fire in the basement, my sister and I learned the importance of telling the truth, even when it’s difficult. Our lack of truth-telling at the time caused my mom great worry as she knew something was burning and was concerned that the house was unsafe. Had we just been honest, it would have saved her a lot of stress and anxiety.
At the end of the day, you’re the one that has to be able to look at yourself in the mirror. Sometimes it’s hard to do the right thing, but if you do then you will enjoy a life of character and integrity.
Yes, my mom is pretty great. If your mom is just as special to you, let her know you appreciate her by making your own list of things she taught you. Mail it to her to read privately or publish it for all the world to see. Doesn’t matter how you deliver it, she’ll love it regardless because that’s what good mothers do.