
Like so many of you who submitted your mothers’ best advice to Chatelaine.com, I, too, have found my life is richer now that I listen to my mom. She always tells me that even when times get tough, I need to do the little things that make me happy. This year, that advice helped me through the end of a relationship that wasn’t working, while keeping my sanity – and my belief in love – intact.
Whether you’re navigating relationships, dealing with disappointments or figuring out how to live life to the fullest, we can all learn from the sage wisdom shared here. And because I didn’t say it enough growing up, thanks for all the great advice, Mom.
“Thirty years ago, when I was about to be married, my mother told me: ‘When you and your husband have a disagreement, never tell anyone else about it. Long after you have forgotten, others will remember.’”
– Heather White, Toronto
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“Just before I married, my wonderfully active mother told me: ‘Remember, houses are made for people, not people for houses!’ Whenever I have to choose between polishing the floor or taking the kids to do something, I recall her advice. And housekeeping always takes a back seat!”
– Hilary Clark, Vancouver
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“The nature of my complaint never mattered – boyfriend woes, menstrual cramps, homework or lack of sleep. My mother used a piece of advice over and over during my teen years: ‘Go for a jog around the block. You’ll feel better.’ Funny that now, whenever I am up against something, I feel the need to walk in fresh air.”
– Judith George, Milton, Ont.
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“When I had my first child, a demanding and colicky baby girl, my mother gave me the one golden rule I live by: ‘Don’t worry about anything your kids won’t be doing when they’re 17. If you must worry, worry about teaching them please and thank you – the most valuable words they’ll ever need to know.’ “