Mother's Day Reminds Mom To Be First

I don't really know whether Mother's Day emerged from a custom of mother worship in ancient Greece, but I do know that mothers deserve the recognition. When you think about it, mothers are often responsible for raising our next generation, which makes them leaders in their right.

Mothers make a difference in the future. You all have my warmest wishes.

This Mother's Day, I am really hoping that you do something wonderful for yourself. In fact, I hope you make it the first day of making everyday special for yourself. You would be surprised how many stay-at-home moms fall into the trap of putting themselves dead last — last on buying new clothes, last for enjoying some quality personal time, last for just about everything.

I don't think it needs to be this way. It needs to be the opposite because motherhood is such a valuable gift. Sure, times have changed and people are busier. But sometimes I'm not sure I understand all the changes. When I was growing up, I did what I was told. Nowadays, it's all about showing them the right way and making compromises.

When my 8-year-old is not behaving, my husband, her mom, and me (I'm the step mom), talk to each other first. We ask ourselves what we need to do differently. If we change our behavior, our daughter will change her behavior. Once the three of us reach an agreement, our daughter agrees too.

I have to admit that this isn't always so easy for me.

The reason it is not always easy is because I'm tempted to throw up my arms and say "We're the parents. She should do what we want."

Of course, because I also work with kids, I know that doesn't go very far. Children have a tendency to model the behaviors of their parents. Worse, demanding compliance might teach her the wrong thing. She might learn to always listen to authority. She might learn that her voice does not matter. She might learn to avoid making decisions. She might learn ... you get the idea.

I want her to grow up and have a voice because so much of the world requires some sort of compromise. So if her parents all provide that kind of model, she is more likely to adopt it as well. And, I have to admit, it usually works better. Enough so that I look forward to one day expanding our family.

If you have not decided what to get for Mother's Day this year, I might offer a suggestion. Give her something special — the gift of beauty and confidence. Seriously. Ask me about my custom gift certificates for personal appointments and workshops.

A personal appointment will help your mother put herself first for a change. And, once she learns to appreciate herself — that she does deserve a new outfit, makeover, or personal time — the more likely she will make sure to put herself first now and again. We people learn to take care of themselves first, just like our daughter is learning now, they are even more empowered to experience peace, love, and joy in their lives!

Isn't that what it is all about? I think so. May you and your mother have peace, love, and joy in your life!