Life Lessons from my leading ladies

International Women's Day! 

I am incredibly lucky to have been blessed with many wonderful women in my life, each having taught me what it is to be a strong, independent women. Here are five of the most valuable lessons I have learnt from the women around me. 

Mum- The Importance of Strength and Determination 

When asked who my biggest inspiration was as a little girl, I would list off an array girl band member, but it was only as a grew older I realised that my greatest idol lived right under my roof with me. Having a child at such a young age does not come without difficulty, but when I look at the life my Mum has given me, I realise anything is possible. She is the strongest and most determined woman I have ever met. 

Now when I am asked who my biggest inspiration is, I list off every one of my Mum's characteristics. She has taught me what it is to be kind, but resilient, to be independent but to also never be scared to ask for help. There is nobody else I would ever wish to be like.  

Nanna- The Importance of Self- Love

It is true that life throws you some pretty big curve balls but how you get through them is a massive testament to your character. My Nanna has taught me what it is to be strong, even on your weakest of days. Equally, she has taught me how important it is to celebrate every single one of your victories. I believe she is the reason I am a happy person because I can now recognise my achievements as well as my losses and no longer so the glass half empty, but full. 

*Just a side note - if you want to be wrinkle free, stop smoking. Nanna is 54 and there is not one line on her face. Very valuable lesson for all.  

Grandma- The Importance of Selflessness 

My Grandma, Liz, is one of the rare few who's life has been completely devoted to other people. Having been an NHS nurse her entire adult life and raising a family simultaneously, my Grandma is my hero. I can honestly say in my entire life, I have not ever heard her moan- not once. She is so grateful for everything and everyone she has. I can only hope that as I grow older, I continue to be as thankful for every day as she is and find ways that I can help others, as she has. 

Chloe- The Importance of Kindness 

When I was a little girl, I used to look up at Chloe and hope to be just like her when I was grown-up. I was, and still am, infatuated with her kindness and her grace. It is so important in this life to be kind to everybody because you really have no idea what anyone is going through. Chloe has the ability to make anybody feel comfortable in her presence - a warmth I only hope to master one day. With only five years between us, I thought I would eventually catch up but, it turns out that not everybody can be so "Chloe".  

Anna - The Importance of Friendship 

Having a Mum who is so close to her friends is a massive plus in life. You are kind of born with many honorary aunts - one of which is my Mum's best friend, Anna. Anna is a pretty big deal in the corporate banking world and has taught me that no matter what life throws at you, you can get anything you want when you set your mind to it. I have also learnt a lot about what is to be a brilliant friend from the women in my Mum's life. I think they are why I hold my friends so dearly. Boyfriends do come and go but true friendship stands the test of time. No matter how far away my friends move, I will continue to be there for them just as Mum's friends are for her