Hints and tips from a Mom

Advice I would want my children to remember I gave them:

1. Always dress up when you are going to do something that you are a bit anxious about, like taking a test, and of course, a job interview should be a foregone conclusion. Knowing that you look your best will make you feel more confident and focused.

2. Your home speaks volumes about you. Keep it neat and tidy, and don't make it just a place to in which to eat and to crash out. Home can be your place of total replenishment, if you let it be.

3. Read a book. And not just some cheap best-seller either. Read something non-fiction, where you actually learn something.

4. Say 'thank you' often and write thank you notes.  Have a 'thank you' attitude towards life in general.

5. One of the most frugal things a household can do is to keep their refrigerator clean and eat as many leftovers as possible. 

6. When you get paid, immediately write out a budget and 'spend' every dollar. In other words, every bit of your money should be designated, for bills, groceries, savings, etc.  Even 'fun' money should go into its own fund.

7. Don't call people or disturb them during the hours between 5:00 and 7:00. I know it's become acceptable, but I believe the world would be a better place if we could unplug and actually sit down to dinner with our families on a regular basis.

8. A man cannot serve two masters, and debt is a second master, which keeps you from living your best life.

9. Don't follow what everyone else does. If everyone jumped off a cliff, would you jump off too?


I'm sure there will be more to come...as I love to give advice...whether wanted or not. :)  


(Image: "Armchair Lady" pastel on paper, Cory Jaeger-Kenat, 2000.)