My parents are truly my best friends. They're always there for me and have the greatest advice. So I thought I'd share a few of many things that my amazing parents have taught me.
1. Stay true to yourself.
You're one of a kind, so be yourself. Don't let anyone try to tell you to be anything but yourself.
2. Always be kind to others.
Everyone is fighting some battle you know nothing about. It's like the saying "Treat others the way you'd want to be treated."
3. Stay humble.
Don't boast, don't showoff, stay humble towards others. It's like Tim McGraw's famous song "Always stay humble and kind."
4. Express gratitude.
Be thankful for what you have. No matter how little or much you have, always show gratitude for what you have.
5. Be honest with yourself and others.
It's better to be honest than try to makeup lie over lie. If something's bothering you, be honest and talk about it. Don't cover up your feelings.
6. Volunteer.
Whenever you can, help others. Volunteering feeds your soul. It makes you feel like you're making a difference in the world, no matter how big or small. Always volunteer when you can.
7. Work hard.
My parents are prime examples of hard workers. Ever since they started dating, they've worked so incredibly hard to form a financially stable life for themselves and soon enough for my sister and I. You don't get far by sitting on your rear end. Get up and work hard so you can enjoy your life every day!
8. Value family.
My mom has a small family and my dad has a huge family. No matter the size, family is the most important thing in your life. They're your #1 fans and always will be.
9. Life is not a dress rehearsal.
Opportunities only come around once. Take the opportunity when you can. If you really want something, do it while you still have time. My dad related this to dance with me. As a dancer, you have dress rehearsals before the show each year to make sure everything goes smoothly beforehand. You don't have that in life, it's not a dress rehearsal.
10. Don't do anything stupid.
One of my dad's famous quotes. Whenever I'm heading out, he says "Have fun, be safe, I love you, and don't do anything stupid." That speaks for itself.
11. You're beautiful just the way you are.
Growing up a female can be tough sometimes! You want to feel beautiful and important... to your crush especially! Things almost never work out in elementary school, middle school, sometimes even high school! When it doesn't, you can feel very self-conscious and get down on yourself, but don't! Your parents, who know you better than anyone, know you're beautiful, just like your heart.
12. You'll always deal with negative people.
Always. They'll constantly show up in your life. Be kind and keep a big smile on your face. It just reminds you to always be positive.
Share and tell your parents how much they mean to you and how much you appreciate their life lessons.
