I wrote this post earlier this week on my Substack page and it got me thinking about what else do I want my daughters to know. It often feels like there is so much that we need to teach our daughters just about basic survival as women. Kiara already knows to travel in packs when she is out and always has her pepper spray with her.
There is also so much more they need to know, some they will learn from me, most they will learn from life.
Life Lessons for My Daughters
- You might have a big group of friends, you may never fit in and have a few close people. There is no right answer but make sure you always have someone who will rally the troops in the middle of the night when disaster strikes.
- Have kids, don’t have kids. Do what you feel is the right thing for you. Not for me or your dad or your partner – for YOU. If you decide to not have any – the world will keep turning and you will still lead a fulfilling life.
- Always be prepared for your period. Keep a tampon, a pad an extra cup because that monthly friend will arrive at the most inopportune moments (sometimes, not always).
- Buy a bigger size. If your clothes are feeling a little too tight, buy a bigger size. Who cares. I mean really, who cares?
- Drink water. I know, I know but it’s one of those things that works.
- If you start drinking coffee – invest in the good coffee. Instant is not it. Be a coffee snob, it is ok. Your taste buds will thank you.
- Save. Of course but also buy the things you like. I waited too long to do this, don’t be me – be better.
- Get married or don’t. If you do get married and realise its a mistake, get out immediately.
- Find a job you love. Money will come, it always does, do not spend your life stuck in an office or a job you hate. Let people judge you for job hopping or being a struggling artist/entrepreneur – it’s ok.
- Take up space. Cliched I know but it is so important. Your input is valuable, use your voice, your body, your stuff and take up space. This doesn’t mean grab the spotlight (although it can), it just means don’t loose yourself in the corner of the room.
- Listen to your body. If it is telling you something is wrong, it probably is – get it sorted out.
- Never drink without a friend/s you trust implicitly.
- Keep your body moving – walk, run, dance, skip, swim, gym – whatever, just move your body.
Both of you have, so far, remained true to who you are. It is, and always will be your greatest strength. Never loose that – not for a job, not for me, not your dad, not a partner and not friends – stay the course – your course – always.
