Leadership Lessons from My Mom
My mother Shetaye Nigussie – better known as Aty – has taught me many lessons in life. She taught me how to be a good mom – patience is the key, and a whole lot of love. She taught me how to have a happy marriage – listen intently and support one another, in good times and bad. She also taught me how to make it in Corporate America and I apply these lessons each day.
Here are the top 5 leadership lessons I learned from my mom:
Always be punctual. Aty gets to work at least one hour before her shift starts. She uses that time to sit down, have a cup of tea, and prepare herself mentally for the day. While I don’t get to work an hour early, I do show up on time, and I have never been late to an interview.
Take risks. When I became a new mom and I found an opportunity where I would grow in my career, Aty was there to encourage me. She showed up at my doorstep at 5 a.m. so that she could watch my son until my husband came home. That gave me enough time to make the commute into New York City and be there by 8 a.m.
Take the high road. Aty taught me that there will be times when your character will be tested, especially in the workplace. The trick is not to take things personally and never sweat the small stuff. Always give people the benefit of the doubt.
Dress for success. We have all heard this saying before, Aty lives this expression and passed it down to me. I think I will now finally give her a pass for having me wear a dress for my kindergarten trip to the Zoo! I remember vividly how Aty packed enough snacks and juice in a cooler and passed it to my classmates.
Find work doing something you’re passionate about. Aty is passionate about caring for people and it shows in the added care she gives to her patients. When you do something, you are passionate about, work becomes something you look forward to.
Thank you, Aty, for always being there for me and helping me to make it in life! I value the way you raised me, and I just hope that I am half the mom to my boys, that you are to me. Happy Mother’s Day!
