A mother's advice is a fountain of wisdom.
When we are young and impressionable, we tend to ignore our parents' advice. One Psychology 101 in class in college, and we believe we understand the human mind. In our twenties, we feel we have worldly experience when the truth is we do not. As we get older, reality sets in. We recognize that we do not have all of the answers, and we do not know what we do not know. We have gaps in our knowledge and don't even know it exists. Our parents' guidance and nudges seep into our brains. Like seeds being planted, they take root and get unearthed when we need them most. When we lose our parents, it is when we remember the wise and sage advice we received.
As we celebrate Mother's Day, several people shared the best advice they received from their mothers. It is guidance that has stood the test of time through tranquility and crisis, youth vitality, and adulthood's sophistication.
It is advice that reiterates the need to welcome others into your world; remember that people are fighting battles you cannot see, and when you need help, ask for it.
Always try to be a kind and good person first. Intelligence and success are secondary.
You can have all of the brains and connections in the world, but if you are unkind, people will remember that and not want to work with you. You might be powerful, but you will be alone.
Remember that everyone is fighting a battle
Even if not immediately apparent or transparent, people have struggles and challenges they are facing every day. Not everyone likes to discuss it with others or wear the strain and stress, but demons are being battled, and cognitive loads challenge a person's equilibrium. From eating disorders to financial uncertainty, you never know with what someone is dealing. Knowing this, be more compassionate and patient with others. They may be acting out not because of you but rather because you are there.
Respond don't react
When something is challenging you, or you are faced with stress or an unpleasant surprise, take a pause, think, and respond. Taking a breather will help you remove yourself from the situation. In addition, it will make it less likely that you will reflexively react in lieu of responding.
You don't ask, you don't get
You cannot, nor should you, attempt to do everything yourself. Sometimes we need guidance and assistance, and as one mom told her daughter, "The secret to a long and happy life is learning to ask for and receive help."
A mother's advice is timeless. You can pull it out whenever you need some encouragement or tap into someone's well-worn experience. They lived through trials and tribulations so that you do not have to.
