Top Mom Tips: 10 Life and Business Lessons Learned from Mom

      Side Hustle Nation is committed to enhancing your personal profitability. To accomplish this, we frequently collaborate with companies that align with this goal. If you register or make a purchase through one of our partners’ links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more. As Mother’s Day approaches, I wanted to reflect on some of the most valuable advice and lessons I received from my mom during my upbringing. While much of this advice was quite straightforward, I found that it also has broader implications for entrepreneurship.

      My mom has always been my biggest champion and supporter. To give you some context, she had a couple of different careers, first in nursing and later as a library assistant. (She even helped me secure one of my first jobs in high school at the library.) There are many pieces of wisdom that I hope to pass on to our little ones! And if you enjoy this format, be sure to check out the related list/episode featuring dad’s advice!

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      1. Keep Reading and Writing

      My brother (Chris from BecomingBetter.org) and I certainly spent our fair share of time watching TV and playing video games, but we were always encouraged and expected to read for enjoyment. I discovered that reading various styles and viewpoints sparked my creativity.

      We had a collection of construction paper, crayons, and markers in the kitchen that we turned into various projects. When I mentioned I disliked the new Sonics logo, mom suggested, “Okay, make a better one.” Writing is probably one of the most undervalued skills today, as so much of our communication occurs via email or online platforms. Yet, it’s a skill that requires practice. I’m really thankful my mom encouraged both Chris and me to continue writing.

      2. “If You’re Not in It, It’s Just a Postcard.”

      Yes, I’m old enough that my first camera used real film, the kind you had to take to a store for development. After developing one of those film rolls, mom told me, “If you’re not in it, it’s just a postcard.” I can’t remember the photo’s content, but I must not have been in it! This lesson has resonated with me both literally and metaphorically.

      If you’re lucky enough to visit iconic sites like The Great Wall, Angkor Wat, or the Eiffel Tower, remember that countless professional photographers have captured those moments in ideal lighting with the best equipment. But they didn’t have you. Get in the picture. In all my endeavors, the most successful projects are those where I put my name on them, rather than remaining anonymous behind the scenes. In any business, you bring your unique outlook, personality, strengths, and style, which can serve as a competitive edge.

      3. Be Able to Follow Instructions… But It’s Okay to Do It Your Own Way, Too.

      This is a lesson from building with LEGOs. It’s a vital skill to be capable of adhering to instructions and paying close attention to details. In business, it’s crucial to leverage the case studies and mentorship of those who have gone before you. Why reinvent the wheel? However, free-building can also be enjoyable. In business, there won’t always be a clear step-by-step guide to follow.

      4. Send Your Thank You Notes

      As kids, whenever we received birthday money, we were never permitted to cash those checks or use the money until our thank you notes were written. This simple practice instilled gratitude in us, even if it felt like a chore at the time. It’s a habit that has stayed with me as I’ve engaged in gratitude journaling intermittently over the last decade.

      5. Curation is Creation

      When Chris became a big fan of Billy Joel, mom created a “greatest hits” mixtape for him, showcasing the importance of curation, which remains relevant today. Chris applies this concept in his articles about Stoicism essentials. In online business, this idea is reflected in email newsletters and podcasts like The Side Hustle Show. For example, I’ve compiled my own “greatest hits” playlist (and others based on specific sub-topics):

      Greatest Hits: Best of The Side Hustle Show

      If you’re unsure where to begin, here are some of the most popular, impactful, and profit-inspiring episodes.

      Add to Spotify

      6. Do the Easy Part First

      Mom is a master of jigsaw puzzles, and facing 500-1000+ randomly assorted pieces can feel overwhelming. Her advice? Start with the outline or other straightforward sections. This approach allows you to build positive momentum, feel a sense of progress