I see these lists on blogs all over the internet but I very rarely see a list that encompasses all the lessons and ideals I would like my son to grow up with. In a very technologically savvy world where people don't always treat others with respect and courtesy, I want my son to know what the right way is. I instill these ideas into him as he grows.
1. Say thank you. Write thank you notes. Be thankful. Whether it be a Christmas gift from Grandma and Grandpa, a thoughtful birthday gift from a friend, or a friendly gesture from a neighbor always say thank you and also write a thank you note. It takes only two minutes of your time and you can never thank someone enough for thinking of you.
2. Stand up for yourself. If you're getting picked on in high school by the school bully, your college roommate likes to heckle you or you have a boss at work who likes to put you down: speak up! You'll always be surrounded by people who like to talk down to you and will try to belittle you. Don't let them do it. Always respond tactfully, respectfully and intelligently. Sounding smarter than the other person shuts them up really quick. One of my favorite quotes is "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent".
3. Always look nice. You never know who you'll run into. Feel free to run to the store in pajamas but make sure they're nice ones.
4. Forgive. Though it will be one of the toughest lessons you'll learn you must learn how to forgive. Whether you forgive someone for wronging you in some way, disrespecting you or lying to you, forgive them. You don't want to carry around anger all the time. However, make sure you don't allow them to hurt you or wrong you again.
5. Be self sufficient. It's ok to rely on people if need be but always make sure that you can provide for yourself if you have to.
6. Knowledge is power. You can never know too much about something. Doctors are there to help you but sometimes it's smart to do your own research and form your own opinion. Always read into something before you go and do it. You can never be too prepared or educated. Make sure you have reliable information and don't be spontaneous when it comes to important decisions.
7. Eat healthy and organically. There are pesticides and chemicals on and in everything. Make sure you know what you're consuming and that it's good for you and your loved ones. Don't cut off years of your precious life by eating too much fast food or junk. Also, stay away from pop. Far too much sugar and nothing about it is good for you. You were given this gift of a life and a body, don't abuse it.
8. Less is more. This applies to every aspect of your life.
9. Always appreciate what you have been blessed with. Though you may have worked hard for what you have realize that not everyone has what you have and you're lucky to be so fortunate. It may not always seem like it but there are always things to be grateful for. Take time to think about what you're grateful for each day.
10. Fight the good fight. You can't win at everything but you sure as hell can put up a fight. As long as you are capable of fighting for something, do so. If you want something, work hard for it and don't give up. Fight for your career, your success, your marriage, your children, your family, your well being and your health. Be willing to accept failures but know that you did your best and that you fought until you had no fight left in you.
11. Always be prepared for guests. Always have snacks, beverages and a dessert on hand in case you need to entertain at the last minute. Always keep a bottle of good wine in the house even if you don't drink.
12. Take time to do something for yourself and relax. You need time to reflect on your day and wind down. Sometimes you'll have to force yourself into it but go to the gym, read a good book, watch a movie, meditate, do yoga or go for a long walk if that's what you like.
13. You can never have too much family time. Spend time with your loved ones and make sure you always have enough time for the people who raised you and your own family that you've created. Your children will only be under your roof for a short time- enjoy every second of it. Life is ever changing. Appreciate every moment for what it is.
14. Read a lot. Read books, read magazines, read articles, read whatever you enjoy. It keeps you intelligent, focused and you'll always learn something new. Read to your children from the second they're born. They might not know what you're saying but it's never too early to start- they'll learn to talk earlier.
15. Listen to other people's advice. People are always willing to tell you what they think (whether you have asked or not!). Sometimes you should disregard it but if nothing else you might be able to learn from other's mistakes and avoid making your own. You also might learn something!
16. Say I love you and often. Make sure your loved ones know you love them each time you see them. Don't ever be afraid to say those three words.
17. Life is short. Never forget this and live your life according to this. We all hope we'll live to be old and wrinkly but we don't know when our last day will be. Live every day like it's your last and live with no regrets.
18. Be wise with money. Make sure you have established credit for yourself and you have a savings account with safety money. You never know when your car will break, you'll have a medical emergency that's not covered by your insurance or a home improvement. Make sure you treat yourself occassionally to a nice dinner or something you've wanted.
19. Focus on the good and not the bad. We could all sit around and mope about what we don't have but appreciate what you do have and the good things you have surrounding you. We all go through tough times and challenges but that's life and it makes us appreciate the good.
20. Know that I, asyour mother, will always love you no matter what. I will always be there for you as a shoulder to cry on, for advice or just for company. I have adored you from the moment you were born and you will never disappoint me.
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