As my daughter is getting ready to embark on her adventure to Paris, I find it essential to ensure that the nuggets of wisdom I’ve shared over the years resonate with her. Each night, I wake up anxious, hoping she’s not just packing her belongings, but also the common sense and etiquette that will serve her well. In my frantic morning visits to her room, I whisper bits of advice, hoping they stick. Some of these insights are not just meant for her; they’re lessons I wish I had embraced at 20:
- Choose wisely. Your decisions regarding your body, emotions, friendships, relationships, and finances define you.
- Stay connected with your family. Moving away is a transition for everyone, not just you.
- Beware of credit card traps. If you can’t afford it, you don’t need it.
- Step outside and enjoy nature. And don’t forget your sunscreen!
- Flash a smile at strangers—it can brighten their day.
- Always support kids selling lemonade.
- Be truthful, but only share what’s necessary for others’ well-being.
- Show kindness and avoid burning bridges; you never know when paths will cross again.
- Get involved in community service.
- Prioritize sleep at night but embrace the rejuvenation of an afternoon nap.
- Use the buddy system; it’s safer and more fun.
- Remember, everyone has their struggles, even if they don’t show it.
- Tip generously; both kitchen and waitstaff deserve recognition for their hard work.
- Focus on the positives; it’s more uplifting than complaining.
- If you’re dissatisfied, take action to change it.
- Listen actively and cultivate patience.
- Set ground rules with roommates early on to prevent future conflicts.
- Return borrowed items in their original condition.
- Write letters to your grandparents; take the time to connect with others through handwritten notes at least once a month.
- Send genuine thank-you notes—texts don’t count!
- Avoid lending money with the expectation of repayment; it can strain friendships.
- Embrace new experiences and cherish the journey.
- Don’t fear failure; it’s part of personal growth.
- Keep an eye on deadlines; missing them can have serious consequences.
- Remember that online content is permanent; use privacy settings wisely!
- Journal your experiences, both the joyful and the challenging; share them when you feel ready.
- Don’t leave the gas tank empty for the next person, and the same goes for toilet paper!
- Seek advice from others, but remember you don’t have to take it all.
- Read for enjoyment, awareness, and growth—just read!
- Trust your instincts; if you wouldn’t want to explain your decision to others, reconsider.
My daughter, Emma, has begun to embrace some of my advice, and while she may not be the type to call frequently, I find solace in her thoughtful choices in stationery and the journals she’s purchased. She’s equipped herself with a planner, addressing some of my parental concerns.
Above all, I admire her adventurous spirit and confidence as she sets out into the world, embodying the best advice I received when I became a mother: “Raise her to be a strong, independent young woman eager to embrace life.”
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In summary, as my daughter embarks on her journey, I hope these teachings resonate with her and serve as a foundation for her future adventures.