My tips of October.

A few minor things that changed my life – Once I realized them.

1. I am in control of nothing. Absolutely nothing. The only thing I am in control of, is what come out of my mouth and how I treat people. Once you realize that – everything is a whole lot easier.
2. Don’t ever accept your job, unless you are love with it. When I was little, I wanted to be an apple (odd, I know), a firetruck (maybe weirder), a mommy. Then, when I got older, I wanted to be a dentist, a pharmacist, a geologist, and a paleontologist. I work in insurance. Will I always? Who knows. But I do know this, tomorrow I could be an actress flying to New York. Stranger things have happened. Be open to opportunity if it presents itself.
3. I was a single momma. And I wore it as a badge an honor. I was proud that I did it all by myself. But, I didn’t. It takes a village. My parents, friends, co-workers, teachers, are all involved in raising a child. So I quit taking credit – and decided to be thankful for all involved. Albeit it can seem a feat to make dinner, do laundry, and get homework done all in one night – My momma, who was happily married, did that every night – because my dad was busy working. I realized that no matter whether I am single or married, I am a mom. To three amazing kids. That’s enough of a reason to be proud. Don’t be so proud of being able to say I am “A SINGLE MOM AND I DO IT ALONE” – try saying, whether married or not, “I am a mom. And so many people help me raise them. And I am thankful for them all.” And here is the clincher – mean it. It helps ease frustration. I promise.
4. This is self-explanatory. Eat chocolate every day.
5. Kiss on the lips. Have you ever noticed, that when you pucker, your lips make a heart? So when you kiss on the lips it’s like two hearts colliding. That makes me smile. And I love seeing my two year old all puckered up to kiss his momma. (Refer to number 3 – that makes a win/win situation)
6. Self-loathing and self-deprecation is never flattering. Neither is praising yourself. It’s awful when you hear people calling themselves fat, stupid, ugly, etc. Or, thinking that they are superior because they are attractive, brilliant, or successful. Just be happy with who you are, how you are. And always be thankful. One of the most successful people I know is one of the most humble, generous, kind-hearted people I have ever met. I’ve learned a lot, just by observing him.
7. Tattoos. If you get one – love it. And if it’s in another language, make sure a trusted person designs.
8. In trendy clothes – buy throw away. You know, the kind of clothes that will only last for a season because they are cheaply made. On staples, spend the extra money and buy higher end. You will be happy you did. J
9. Let people love you and help you. Stop pushing people away who love you.
10. Love those same people back as hard and as often as you can. That you will never regret.
11. DO NOT BE BITTER. It’s a bad look. A scowl does not compliment any outfit. A smile makes you look like a million bucks, pair that with a happy heart – and you are unstoppable.