6 Lessons I've Learned From My Family

December 1st would have been my Mom's 60th birthday. I miss her smile, her love and her energy everyday. After she passed away, my big sister reminded me that we have to be grateful to have had her in our life for as long as we did. Many people only had one parent growing up and some didn't have any. I'm extremely grateful for the family that raised me. My mom, my dad and my sister have taught me many lessons, and I'd like to share six with you.. 
1. Treat Everyone With Kindness & Respect

It doesn't matter if it's the janitor or the CEO, you speak to everyone the same way, with kindness and respect. You don't know what people are going through, so don't you dare judge. Imagine if somebody you didn't know was having a bad day and your one small gesture of kindness made their day and restored their faith in humanity? Be kind. Be respectful. 

2. Choose Happiness

Choose it now. Don't wait for anyone or anything to make you happy. It is a choice that you decide in your mind. If you are struggling to find happiness, give yourself 10 minutes with a pen and paper, count your blessings and realize all that you have to be grateful for. If that doesn't make you happy, reply to this email and I will try my best to help you. Life is too short not to be happy. 

3.  Slow Down & Enjoy Life

This is one that I struggle with. I get so focused on my next goal, I sometimes let Purpose and my vision consume me. I forget to slow down and enjoy all of the moments along the way. My dad hammers this one home to me. As I'm writing this, you all have my word, I will take more time to enjoy life. 

4. Be Confident In Yourself

You are unique. You are one of one. Own that shit. Yes, you have not accomplished everything you wanted to this year or you want to be in better shape, but here's a crazy reminder, nobody is perfect. Be confident in who you are today, roll those shoulders back and stand up tall. Walk your walk and talk your talk, with hard work and a plan you can achieve anything that you put your mind to. 

5. Stop Caring About What Other People Think

The minute you realize this you become unstoppable. You become free. So many of us let our fear of what other people think, or how we will be judged, intimidate us to not do what we want. Do what makes you happy. The people who love you will support you. Others will judge you, so give them something to talk about. Who cares what they think. 

6. No Matter What, Keep Going. 

You can take breaks, you can take time off, but don't you ever give up. My mother was a run leader for over 10 years inspiring many people to their best races. She completed 13 full marathons and 26 half marathons. When she was no longer able to run, I ran for her. Marathon training pushed me to levels of mental toughness and resilience that I did not know I was capable of. This year has been the toughest for many of us. I thought about quitting during the first lockdown this spring. It took me a while to get out of that funk, but I found a way because I remembered my why. Last week, I felt completely burnt out. Our sales have dropped since the latest restrictions were put into place, I've had to reduce our labour hours and I find myself wearing too many hats again. I gave myself Sunday to recharge, but I was still in a funk Monday Morning. My Mom's birthday came at a perfect time. I basked in her sunshine all afternoon at Garry Point. It gave me time to reflect on all of the lessons her, my dad and my sister have taught me. It was a reminder for me to take care of myself first and then find a way to keep going. 

 
I hope these lessons that I've learned can help you. If there's ever any way that I can be of assistance, please don't hesitate to ask. I want to see you prioritize your Health + Happiness so that you can live your best life. 
 
With Love,
Braeden. 
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