Now that I’m raising a 17-year-old and a 9-year-old, I often find myself reflecting on the things I’ve learned over the years — minsan the hard way. If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I’d say, “Don’t worry, you’ll learn. And one day, you’ll teach your kids, too.”
These are the life lessons I try to pass on to my children. Hindi lang tungkol sa grades or chores — but the kind that help shape their hearts and mindset for life.
1. Learn to Budget — Time and Money
Dati, I used to spend without thinking. And time? Lagi akong pagod kasi hindi ko marunong mag-prioritize. Now I teach my kids that budgeting isn’t just for pera, but also for your energy and attention. “Anak, planuhin mo ang araw mo, gaya ng pagba-budget natin sa groceries.”
2. Speak Up — But Always With Respect
I grew up in a time when kids were told to stay quiet. Ngayon, I want my kids to feel heard. I tell them: “You’re allowed to have opinions, basta magalang.” Communication is key — at home and in life.
3. Being Kind is Always in Style
Walang talo sa pagiging mabait. I remind my kids that they can be smart, strong, and successful — but kindness will always be their best trait. “Kung may choice between being right or being kind, choose kind.”
4. Failure is Not the End
I used to think mistakes meant I wasn’t good enough. But failure is part of the process. I tell my kids, “Okay lang magkamali. Mas mahalaga kung paano ka babangon.”
5. Take Care of Yourself Too
As a mom, I learned (late!) that I can’t pour from an empty cup. So I teach my kids to listen to their bodies, to rest, and to value mental health. “Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s survival.”
6. Family Comes First, Always
No matter how busy life gets, I remind them that family is home base. Kaya kahit pagod or stressed, we make time to talk, laugh, and eat together. Those small moments? Yun ang tumatatak habang buhay.
I may not be the perfect mom, but I try my best every day — and that’s enough. If I can raise kind, strong, and thoughtful kids, then I’ve done my job well. The best part? I get to grow and learn with them.
One Response
🌿 “Real parenting wisdom right here.”
This is the kind of post I wish I had seen when my kids were younger — not the filtered, Pinterest-perfect kind, but the raw and real lessons that truly matter. The reminder about budgeting time and energy? YES. That hit home. It’s not just about getting things done; it’s about how we do them, and who we become along the way. Thank you for putting this into words so beautifully.