Rules I Live By

lessons I have collected in my short 38 years

I love history and I love old people. A weird way to start a post but it is true. My mom used to say when I was a little girl, if there was a room full of people, young and old, I would always go sit with the old people. I loved their stories, appreciated their wisdom, and wanted to soak in their lessons. I used to sit with them and ask a million questions about life, their youth, their stories. I wanted to put myself in their shoes and feel the days of old. I still feel this. All of this.
I won’t pretend to have it all together. I am so far from having it all together. But in my 38 years, and many conversations with people much older than myself, I have realized there are little rules I have collected and like to live by. I thought I would share mine and hope you can comment and share some of yours too.

Little rules I like to live by:

1. Never go cheap on two things - steak or alcohol (my parents taught me this)

2. Set the table, even if it’s just family

3. Never save your fancy/nice pieces for “one day.” Light the candle, use the good dishes, wear the fancy dress. Stop saving them and start making memories with them.

4. Learn the art of no. Not every invitation needs a yes. Protect your peace.

5. Quiet moments matter. It is okay and necessary to have alone time.

6. Small and consistent family rituals (like Friday Movie Night) matter more than anything elaborate

7. Always have something living in your home - fresh flowers, tree, plant

8. Even if you don’t feel it, put your shoulders back and your head high. Confidence can trick any insecurity

9. Quality over quantity - in friends, clothes, life

10. Always pour the glass of wine and turn the music up when you’re cooking

11. Rest is productive too

12. Take a moment to realize you’re making the memory

13. Stand firm on your beliefs. People might not agree with you, but they will respect you

14. Live a life where your funeral is full (I always say this)

15. Live an honest life. Always tell the truth. Always. Your word and name are everything.

I have others but that is what I will share for now. I would love for some of you to share yours. I always love reading them.