When you were a child the last thing you wanted to hear is another unsolicited advice from a parent pointing out the flawed in your plans. My mother was always counseling me about what I should and should not do in a given situation, and she still does. I must admit many times I have done the opposite of what she suggested only to eat crow later! Lucky for me, my mother is not one to say “I told you so!” :-).

One of the best advice she gave me was: “Put your mask on first.” This she said is the advice that the airlines instruct the passengers to do; should an emergency occur. Put on your mask first, then you would be able to provide better assistance to the other person. She said if you don’t have proper oxygen, how are you going to help someone else. (Picture a Jamaican mother with a Jamaican accent!)

She gave me this advice when she saw me trying to give help to others at the detriment of my time, health and financial income potential. I confess that it is hard for me to say “no” when someone seeks my assistance. My mother was concerned that I was doing so much for others that I was ignoring my own needs and wants. I had to admit that she is right. Now I reassess each situation, prior to saying “yes.”  I ensure that I have the time and bandwidth to handle what is being asked of me. I also take stock of how it will impact my business.

Yes. We have to admit most often Mom Knows Best. Next time before you commit, Put Your Mask on First! Happy Timeless Tuesday.

Keep Living a Diamond Life. Live a Life of Purpose!

Get your autographed copy of Live a Diamond Life, Live a Life of Purpose: Diamond Cutters at “A Day with the Authors Event” Saturday, Sept. 13, 2014 (10:00 a.m. – 5 p.m.) at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center. 

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