With the holidays coming up, most of us will be spending time with our families. Sometimes they can make some interesting comments, but they also have some invaluable life experience.
Growing up in a large family, I’ve always been surrounded by my elder family members who have given me tons of advice on life, whether they’ve known it or not. Here’s what I’ve learned from them so far:
“You get out of life what you put into it.”
My grandma tells me this on the daily, and since she’s 91 years old, I think she has some merit in life lessons. She always tells me that if you want a good life, you have to try and make it that way. She is a perfect example of the old school version of “work hard, play hard.” She worked super hard when she was younger, but she also knew how to have fun (after all, she met my grandpa while she was dancing at a club). She says it’s all about balance and if you’re a good person, you will eventually be rewarded.
“Always know a good drink to order.”
My Aunt Pam first introduced to me the importance of good wine and classy cocktails. Knowledge like this helps with the social aspect of the working world. When I’m out with clients, looking like I know a thing or two about sophisticated drinks will give the illusion that I’m mature and classy (even if I order the same two things—nobody has to know!). A good rule to follow: if it has an umbrella, don’t order it.
“Date people that live in different cities so they won’t know.”
Yet another gem from my fabulous grandma. Although she says this jokingly, she reminds me (and all of my friends) that we’re young and it’s okay to date around and not date only one person. At this age, we shouldn’t be worried about being in a serious relationship if we’re not ready yet. The time will come! But for now, have fun and enjoy being young!
“Eat, sleep and pace yourself.”
My late grandfather always reminded me about these three things. Coming from a military background, my grandpa was extremely regimented. He always went to bed at a certain time and woke up at a certain time, with no exceptions. He always made sure to eat “three squares:” breakfast, lunch and dinner. The man lived to be 92 years old. College students tend to have a reputation for being on #teamnosleep, which isn’t a team we should be on! Sleep is important! And on that note, so is eating right. There was no such thing as “skipping” a meal for my grandpa. Keeping your metabolism going and eating right will do wonders for your well-being. Lastly, pacing yourself is crucial! Know your limits and understand that it’s okay to say no to something if you can’t fit in into your schedule.
“You have to work hard to get to where you want to be.”
Wise words from my hard-working dad. My dad simply amazes me everyday. He’s been working as a pharmacist for as long as I can remember, and enjoys talking about science ALL THE TIME. He attended Cal Poly Pomona (CPP) and then went on to University of Southern California (USC). He worked three jobs, held a position for his fraternity’s executive board and still graduated with honors. My dad financed his education all on his own and has never stopped working hard. Whenever I think my life is busy and stressful, I think about my dad. If he can do it, so can I.
“Money isn’t everything, but happiness is.”
My dad wasn’t always supportive of my dreams of working in the communication field. Not long ago, he believed that I should be working towards being a doctor. However, throughout my college career, he has seen how much joy that writing and reporting brings to my life. He now reminds me to follow my passions and that happiness is more important than money. He says that if I have a job that I love and it’s enough to pay the bills, then I’m already doing better than most people.
If you’re surrounded by family (and/or loved ones) during the holidays, try and ask them about their past life experiences or if they have any advice for you. You never know what you might be able to learn.
Do you have any advice from your family that you want to share with us? Let us know with #CampusCropChat on ASI’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!
