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Work lessons from our mothers

As we give thanks to our moms this Mother’s Day many of us will remember the practical things they did for us, like putting a plaster on our bumps and bruises and baking the best birthday cakes.

Mothers, however, give us so much more.

While maternal instincts have not always been associated with the workplace, mothers have more of a role to play in the business world than we might think. 

A labour of love

As a mother, I understand that being a mother is a labour of love. Empathy, listening skills, problem solving, patience and relating to another person on their level are all part of the job description.

What many of us don’t realise is that whether or not “mom” forms part of our own job title, our own mothers were teaching us these crucial work skills by example from the moment we experienced our first playground.

It is these qualities, which make us excellent managers and great team players, allowing us to communicate well with both colleagues and Clients alike.

What’s the magic word?

It goes without saying that the lesson of saying “please and thank you” is a big one in any child’s life.

Most moms are like sergeant majors when it comes to manners, and this simple act of gratitude is drilled into youngsters until these key words are said on demand.

While many of us say please and thank you without even thinking about it, this is such an important act. Displaying good manners and etiquette is important in an office environment and will ensure positive relationships with your colleagues.

The act of being grateful for what we have is also a contributor to our happiness and well-being, making us more effective in the workplace. 

Perhaps in addition, our mothers taught us how to respectfully ask for what we want and need.

Whether it’s a change in job description, more responsibility, a raise, or even just a day off, after all where would we be if we hadn’t practiced the magic words?

Always do your best

Most mothers have a few key sayings tucked away, which they use regularly to motivate their children.

Whether it’s “a job worth doing, is a job worth doing well”, or “try and fail, but don’t fail to try,” the message is clear - always do your best!

While we may draw upon inspirational writers like Stephen Covey and Tony Robins to help us remain motivated now, our moms were the first ones to cheer us on, with pom-poms in hand, encouraging us to reach our full potential.

Many of our mothers gave us the motivation we needed to succeed. This is a lesson many of us in the working world have carried through into our adult lives, helping us climb that next step on the corporate ladder.

Thanks to our Moms

This Mother’s Day, let us give thanks to our mothers and their moms who have taught us these integral day to day life skills.

Not only did they guide and nurture our growth but they also taught us the fundamental basics of what it means to be a hardworking and successful person in the world of work.  

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