1. Bad days are good days in disguise.

(But first, please tell me you listened to this song over a million times while you cried your eyes out over a bad day in middle school.)

If you don't have a bad day, then how do you know if you're having a good day? To start off, my mother is the queen of positivity. She rarely complains which is the most desirable trait anyone could have. Growing up, she always taught my sisters and me to learn from our mistakes. Cliche, but it makes more sense the older I get.

2. Negativity leads to failure.

Being negative is a disease. A disease that hurts everyone around you. As mentioned before, my mom's middle name is positivity.

3. Get dressed every day.

This one is one of my favorites, especially because I see the importance of it in so many situations. My mom gets up every day, showers, and gets dressed no matter what is on her schedule for the day. Yes, every stinkin' day. (I am amazed just thinking about it) But the real meaning behind it is getting prepared for what is ahead whether it is on your schedule or not. It adds a bit of confidence (which we all could use a dose of) to whatever you have planned for.

4. Learn to say "no."

You first heard this in D.A.R.E. class when the deputy showed the effects of drugs and cigarettes. I grew up in a family whose main goal was to never disappoint anyone. Great goal, if I say so myself, but it also leads to participating in activities that aren't included in your definition of fun. I inherited that trait and often find myself wondering why I say yes to activities that I have zero interest in. My mother instilled the importance of being present, even when there is nothing in it for you.

5. Family is forever.

Remember coming home from school crying because Little Sarah said she didn't want to be friends anymore. (which felt a little worse than your first break-up) Family are the few people who are there even after you accidently mentioned how much you hate their new haircut. It's those days when you feel like it would be easier if you just gave up, and then they call with a powerful pep talk. I think moms are given the superpower of encouragement. And luckily, that superpower never goes to waste.

6. It's okay not to do what everyone else is doing.

Let's go back to when you didn't make the basketball team, but everyone else did. Even stinky Susan who can't make a basket. Mom first reminded you that life isn't fair. (classic) She also encouraged you to try something new. Still today, I am reminded that some things aren't in the cards for me and that's okay. It doesn't make me any less of a person, co-worker, or student.

7. Your faith is a stepping stone.

Growing up, my siblings and I were never forced to go to church. We would wake up on Sunday morning to our parent's asking if we wanted to go to church with them. There was not an ounce of forcing, dragging, or a brief description of how God would punish us if we didn't go. The craziest outcome is we never chose not to go. Every Sunday we went to church as a family, because it was our decision. In a quiet and discreet way, my mom taught us the importance of faith and the love of Jesus Christ. It wasn't up to anyone else, but ourselves to praise a God who is willing to love us even if we didn't make it to church on time.

8. Respect your significant other.

I have never heard my parents swear towards each other. Never have they slipped a swear word next to each others name. Were there disagreements? Yes. Were there days when they enjoyed time alone? Yes. I, biasedly, believe that is where their marriage has surpassed all expectations. They respect each other to know there will be arguments that are difficult to forget and words that are hard to take back. But at the end of the day, respect is the key to succeeding in marriage 101.

9. Don't complain about your significant other to friends, family, or colleagues.

Similar to respect your significant other, I am fortunate to have parents who don't complain about each other to outside sources. If there is an issue they confront one another, which is something we should practice in daily life and all relationships. This lesson leads to security and strength in a relationship and marriage.

10. Love what you do.

My mom would be proud of me if I worked at McDonald's for the rest of my life. She would be equally proud if I invented a product that was highly profitable. She wouldn't care if I lived in a shack and ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day, as long as I am happy. Honestly, that is the best feeling any child could ever have.