I consider myself very fortunate to have been raised by two wonderful human beings. My mom and dad taught me much of what I know, and I see their lessons in so many aspects of my business, my parenting, and my home. During this Mother’s Day week, it seems fitting to honor Mom (and Dad), and the top five productivity tips they taught me.
My parents embody all the positive stereotypes Californians associate with Midwesterners. They are the nicest and most hardworking folks you’ll ever meet. Ever heard the expression “Minnesota nice”? That’s them! The two of them modeled amazing attributes while raising my brother and me.
I started working in the family business when I was 13. My parents owned a variety store that was an institution in our northern Minnesota town. Think of a Ben Franklin or a five and dime: a store where our customers knew they could find anything that they couldn’t find anywhere else. I loved the feeling of working, earning money, and making a difference. My successes in life are the result of the countless nuggets learned and good habits formed through working in the family business.