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Although the majority of things my parents used to tell me while growing up would go through one ear and out the other, there are some things that I now only realise are spot on!
In fact with realising how right they were comes implementing some of these lessons into all aspects of my adult life.
1. “Think a smile”
I hated hearing my mother tell me this. But as I grow older I realise that people are so much more approachable when their face doesn’t directly reflect the possible stresses and anger going on inside.
2. “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all”
This one reminds me of many instances where the filter between my brain and mouth seemed to be lacking in general integrity and social skills. Anger or ignorant thinking has been the cause of many breakups, loss of friendships and even employment loss. It really is worth thinking before you blurt something out.
3. “Not everyone is going to like you, get over it”
And you don’t always have to like everyone else! Well it makes sense: there are billions of people in the world. Not all of them are going to favour even the most popular of celebrities.
4. “If at first you don’t succeed...”
Trying something and failing really is better than not trying at all. In fact most of the things I haven’t succeeded in have contributed to my future successful experiences.
5. “Believe half of what you see and none of what you hear”
In junior school, I made the mistake of repeating a rumour I’d heard to one of the senior girls. It turned out that the rumour was completely untrue and I was one of the girls called out in assembly to stand in front of everyone to be made an example of. Now, in my adult career I always ask myself “if they’re gossiping about someone like that they will probably do the same to you.”
What were the things that your parents said to you that made sense later in life? Tell us at chatback@parent24.com.
