Dear Reader, You know that person in your life who helped shape your values, your interests, your sense of humor, and even your music tastes? For me, that person is my mom. And seeing as today is her birthday, I want to take this opportunity to celebrate her. 🎉 You see, my mom is not only adorable (the woman is pocket-sized), she’s also taught me so much about what it means to be a strong, independent woman. So, in honor of her, here’s some wisdom that I’ve learned from her over the years. 🎉 Be Someone’s Biggest CheerleaderMy mom is my number one supporter, all day, every day. If there were an Olympic event for cheering on loved ones, she’d take home the gold. Life is hard enough, and having someone in your corner makes all the difference. And she's taught me that I can be that person for others. Honestly, it’s part of what brought me to coaching. It just feels so good! 💡 Do What Lights You UpFrom as early as I can remember, my mom showed me that women can (and should!) follow their passions. She built a meaningful career in health communications, proving that fulfillment isn’t about chasing status, it’s about aligning with purpose. She championed me when I went from corporate to coaching, and now I’ve learned that what’s most important is finding work that excites you. (In my case, I have gotten to do that and work from home in comfy pants). 🤝 People Are EverythingMy mom has more friends than I can count, staying close with people she met in kindergarten all the way to last week. And somehow she takes care of everyone like it’s her second full-time job. She remembers birthdays, checks in “just because,” and has never met a person she couldn’t connect with. She’s taught me that the best investment you can make is in other people. Life is richer when you show up, stay in touch, and let your people know they matter. 🔧 Break Stereotypes (and Fix the Sink)In our house, the toolbox didn’t belong to my dad, it was my mom’s. If something broke, she was the one fixing it. Need a leaky faucet repaired? A loose shelf tightened up? A stubborn jar opened? Call my mom. She taught me that independence isn’t about knowing everything, it’s about being willing to figure it out. And sometimes, it’s about having the right wrench. ⏳ Passion Has No Expiration DateAt 81, my mom is still consulting on age-friendly communities because she loves it. Some people count down the days to retirement. She’s out here proving that when you love what you do, you never really clock out. Stay curious, stay engaged, and never let anyone tell you that your best years are behind you. (She’d probably add that staying young at heart is the real secret). 🎶 Bonus: A Little Paul McCartney Never HurtsMy mom LOVES Paul McCartney. I mean, we’re talking near obsession-level fandom here. And she definitely created lifelong-fans in my brothers and me by playing Beatles, Wings, and solo records by all four band members since birth. Whether in life, work, or a midweek slump, find what brings you joy. Stay inspired. And never underestimate the power of a good soundtrack. Happy birthday, Mom! Thank you for the lessons, the laughs, and the love. 💖 With ease, Tracy Forwarded from a friend? Subscribe to With Ease Bi-Weekly Newsletter here! I offer 1:1 coaching, group coaching, team facilitation, and public speaking, and tailor offerings to the specific needs of you/your workplace. Contact me to learn more. |
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