Self

10 Great Lessons My Mother Taught Me

Learn from your mother

April 19 was the fourth anniversary of my mom's death. I feel fortunate to have had her in my life for 60 years. Many of my friends were much younger when their mothers died.

Because I knew my mom for six decades, I was able to learn many important lessons from herthrough things she told me and things she demonstrated.

1. Self-Preservation. Take care of yourself first. This will give you the time and energy you need to help others. What does this mean?  Regularly eat good and healthy food (which definitely includes treats). Get enough rest and sleep for your body. And, recreation-wise, consistently do something you enjoysometimes by yourself and sometimes with others.

2. Notice and appreciate everything around you. My mom used to say that most people walk around unconscious. And this amazed her, because she saw everything! And had so much appreciation for what she saw – every sunset, every beautiful flower.

3. Keep an active mind. Mom played a great game of bridge. And she did crossword puzzles (the hard ones). She was always interested in what was going on with other people.

4. Stay interested in learning. My mom could answer many of the questions on Jeopardy. (I can answer the questions when it's the elementary school kids.) She said this was because she read so much. Books, newspapers, magazine articles, etc.

5. Don't break the big rules, because they are there for a reason. Follow the speed limit (I don't always follow this one exactly), cross on the green light, respond punctually to invitations, show up on time, and do what the doctor says.

6. Keep great notes. I continue to learn what a huge benefit this is, especially when you need to complain about something. If you can come up with written documentation, you'll probably get the refund or new item or the apology you're looking for.

7. Put things away. Then, you'll be able to find them when you need them.

8. Laugh a lot. My mom had a great laugh and found lots of crazy things funny.

9. Fill your life with music. My mom was a "groupie" during the early days of jazz. She personally knew some of the big names such as Duke Ellington and Father Hines. As a young woman, she loved to hang out at clubs, and she was a great dancer. She always had music playing in her house and would break into a dance without any notice.

10. Do your best. Then, at the end of the day, you'll feel satisfied with your accomplishments.

Christine Baumgartner is a dating and relationship coach. She offers a complimentary coaching call if you're unhappy with your dating life. Just click here and fill out What's Holding You Back from Love.