Mothers nurture and teach us so many things, but have you ever thought about how these unconventional “life lessons” from mom can help you advance your career readiness? Here are seven things that my mother said and taught me about life that have been invaluable in my career and professional life.
1. “It’s not a question of if you’ll need something but rather
when
”
One of the many things I learned from watching my mother is that she was always prepared. Band aids, stamps, tissues or umbrella – she always had the practical stuff everyone needed, when they needed it. In my professional life, I have excelled at managing large, special events because I always have a contingency or back up plan for when (and not if) something would happen.
Be the person who is always prepared for anything - whether it’s running out of ice, needing to find the nearest hardware store, or simply offering your boss or client an alternate idea to a pressing issue.
2. “Everything can’t sit in the front of the refrigerator”
Whenever I could not find something in the fridge, my mom would say, “it’s in there … everything cannot sit in front of the refrigerator.” You can apply this simple fact to create solutions to career challenges and changes. Remember, everyone sees what is easy and obvious. The successful, however, look beyond things in plain sight to uncover the real things that others both want and need.
3. “Everything in life is negotiable”
Although my mother never said this – she taught me this lesson in many non-traditional ways, including haggling over a price at yard or antique sales. Whether you’re selling a thing, idea, or yourself, you first have to know what it’s worth in order to know when someone makes you a great offer. You also should remember that just because someone puts a certain price tag on something doesn’t mean you can’t and shouldn’t ask for or expect a better deal.
4. “Do the things you need to do in order to get the things that you want”
It’s a simple truth – there are things in life that you both have to and want to do. However, there is an order for doing both that will result in greater effectiveness and productivity.
For example, you can travel and see the world but think about how much nicer a vacation it will be when you have more means and resources to plan it. Never forget there is a reason why you eat dessert
after
the meal.
5. “Always make people feel welcomed and acknowledged”
Hospitality is a way to make others feel “at home” in your presence. Growing up I learned “southern hospitality” first-hand from watching my mom do little things to make others feel comfortable and special. Remembering someone’s favorite color or food is a simple way to show that you are actively listening and tuned in. Demonstrating your attention to other people’s ‘details’ is also a proven method to cultivate and foster strong professional alliances and relationships.
6. “Develop and use a camp list for the things you do often”
The first time I went to overnight camp they provided a lengthy list of everything that you needed to pack and bring with you. Years later, anytime I would need to plan something or go somewhere my mother suggested to make a “camp list.” Making a list of all the things you need for any situation is a great way to ensure that you have what you need for any project or job.
7. “Don’t wait ‘till the last minute to do things”
Studies show that most people tend to make more mistakes and forget things when they rush and/or wait until the last minute - do you? Whether it’s packing for a business trip or working to meet a client deadline, you’ll be better prepared when you plan in advance and give yourself extra time to cross the T’s and dot the I’s.
Take a moment this week to think about the biggest life lessons you’ve learned from your mother, grandmother, or maternal figure in your life. Then take time to examine the real “meaning” of each thing she told or taught you and apply it to your career and professional life.