Growing up with a working mom - some would say it has its upsides and downsides...but as I've gotten older I've begun to appreciate the hard work and life lessons my working mom has taught me, and I wouldn't trade that for the world! Here are some things my mom (and her job) have taught me:

1. Be Independent.

Having a working mom has always instilled in me the idea that I can (and will) be able to make my own living. This lesson applies not only to work, but in school, relationships, and friendships so far.

I've learned that nobody is going to do my work for me, and if I want something done the best way to do it is for myself! From a young age, I was held fully accountable for my own work, and that's now a very important driving factor that has helped me excel.

2. Be Present.

Even when my mom was working, she always found time to attend every event that me and my sister asked her to. This always meant a lot to me, considering she would take off work so she could support something as silly as a 3rd grade piano recital or a field hockey tournament.

When I reflect on my past, the first thing I think of is how supported and happy I would feel when my mom would come to events that were special to me - even if she had to sacrifice being at work.

This has taught me to care about what makes others happy, and support them through your presence, no matter what you have to sacrifice.

3. Have Fun.

While there might be a saying about "all work, no play," my mom definitely doesn't fit this stereotype of a professional. My mom always made sure to bring out the fun parts of life, whether that be having movie nights or taking impromptu weekend vacations to Disney World every once in a while.

This has taught me that no matter how busy you are, life is about the journey, and it's okay to enjoy the ride! "Work hard, play hard," as she says!

4. Anything Boys Can Do, Girls Can Do Better.

My mom is a superwoman, and everybody knows it! Having a strong woman as my primary role model has definitely instilled in me a lot of confidence and power.

From a young age I was taught I can be anything I want to be if I put my mind to it, and thats been a really valuable lesson. My mom is successful because she worked hard, and I'm proud to think that if I put in the work I could make just as much of a difference!

5. Be Kind.

No matter how busy or tired my mom is, she always goes the extra mile to make someone else's day! I think sometimes professionals can get so caught up in their success that they don't take the time to look around and help those who are less fortunate.

My mom has always made sure that we give back to the community, and continuously instilled in me the idea that a smile and the question 'how are you?' goes a long way.

So thanks, Mom, for teaching me such valuable lessons - and being the coolest 'lawyer mom' I know! I wouldn't trade the endless hours of playing with toys at your office or drawing you pictures to hang on your door for anything! Here's to many more years of joy and success.