There is nothing like raising a daughter. Her little dimples remind you of your own, blissfully mixed with her father’s smile, and when you look into her eyes you see all the possibilities of the world gazing right back at you. Your job in raising her is undoubtedly one of tremendous joy, love and responsibility. In her lifetime, your work will include endless diaper changes, late night feedings and kisses on boo boos. Each act of devotion will shape that precious little life that you would willingly give your own for. You want her life to be filled with purpose and happiness. You read her books and comb her hair, but truthfully your little girl’s journey into womanhood begins with the care and keeping of you. So as you guide that precious girl, please remember to…

Take time for yourself- I know that mommy guilt will nag at you. It will plead with you to skip a workout, a coffee date with a friend, or even an overnight getaway with your partner. Remember, always, that you can care best for others when you have taken care of you. When that guilt starts to nag at you, push it away. I know she is begging you to stay, but I promise, she will thank you later.

 

Love yourself- Your little girl will grow to admire you more than Taylor Swift. She will try to be just like you, because you are her best model for what being a woman looks and feels like. Teach her to love herself by loving yourself. As you walk by the mirror, focus on your best asset rather than your small flaws. Teach her to be comfortable in her own skin by being comfortable in yours. This can be so hard, but try to work on it each day.

Forgive- People are fallible, every single one of us. It is easy to let hurt harden our hearts, leaving us broken or jaded. Try to see the world through the perspective of others. It makes forgiveness a much easier task. Know that we are all walking a difficult path through life, and at times we stumble and fall bringing those we love down with us. Understand, empathize, forgive and move on.

Strive for your personal best and don’t compare yourself to others- Sometimes the accomplishments of others can leave us feeling deflated. It’s easy to get stuck in our own heads, wishing we were further along life’s path than we are. Don’t do that to yourself. Just don’t go there. Who cares if that cute soccer mom (who also looks amazing in Lululemon yoga pants) can juggle work, guitar lessons, BUNKO and family dinner? Hey! Did you get to the grocery store before the toilet paper ran out this week? Perfect!

Find your passion-Take time to get to know yourself. What gets you up out of bed before the sunrises on a Sunday morning? Pursue that! Find your passion; go forward with a smile and a light that radiates outward toward those around you. Your enthusiasm will inspire others to share in your passion with you, and will also encourage those around you to find and share their own passions.

Be independent- Know that having people in your life will bring you joy and fulfillment, but also know that you will be okay to stand alone if you are ever forced to be in that difficult place. Educate yourself in any way that feels meaningful to you. Know that an education makes you powerful and provides you the confidence needed to overcome any difficult situation you may find yourself facing.