Nine years ago, a doctor handed me a tiny pink bundle and said, “She’s all yours.” While the words didn’t include the weight of “You better not mess this up,” I could feel it lingering in the air. From that moment on, the responsibility of raising a confident, spirited girl has weighed heavily on my heart.
Now that she’s turning nine, my anxiety has kicked into high gear. With social media bombarding us with unrealistic beauty standards and celebrities dominating the headlines, I realize how crucial it is to prepare her for the world. I only have nine more years to ensure she knows how to navigate life’s challenges. That’s not much time!
Here are some essential lessons I want to pass on to her:
- Always feel empowered to say NO. Whether it’s to a boyfriend, a demanding boss, or anyone else—your voice matters.
- Every girl should choose one couch that’s just for her, without needing anyone else’s opinion.
- He may be your love now, but remember, his mother loved him first. Always give that respect.
- Being able to cook will save you a ton of money when you’re out on your own.
- Tampons are annoying—just accept that.
- When finances are tight, rely on peanut butter for protein, oranges for health, and $10 bottles of wine for sanity!
- Your pleasure in a relationship is as important as his. Every time. If he thinks otherwise, walk away.
- Invest in good haircuts and quality razors. Life’s too short for anything less.
- A solid pair of tweezers is essential—trust me on this one.
- Remember, Jackie O never wore Daisy Dukes. You don’t have to either.
- The right partner is the one who stands alongside you, not in front of you.
- Shoes and handbags are always a good investment.
- A well-fitted dress, killer heels, and bold lipstick can make you feel unstoppable—embrace it.
- There will always be women who will judge you; just smile and move on. They’re not worth your energy.
- If you’re facing something tough, know that your mom probably has too. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
And this is just a glimpse! I still want to share so much more with her—like the joys of binge-watching Netflix after a long week or the importance of indulging in milk chocolate. As I watch this amazing young lady quietly doing her homework, I can’t help but be in awe of who she is becoming. Thankfully, I still have time to share all these important lessons.
If you’re interested in fertility topics, check out this post on intracervical insemination. For more on the journey to parenthood, Make A Mom is a great resource. And if you need expert advice on pregnancy options, Hopkins Medicine offers excellent support.
Summary
Raising a confident daughter in today’s world is challenging, but sharing valuable lessons about self-worth, relationships, and life skills can make a difference. From knowing when to say no to understanding the importance of investing in oneself, these lessons will help her navigate life with strength and grace.