Some of life's most important lessons were imparted to me as a child. My mother drilled them into my mind again and again, almost like a mantra to create a healthy human being. As an adult, I acknowledge these lessons are imperative, but they are hard to embrace at times.

During moments of frustration or fear, here are a few things my mama told me to stay:
I tried my best.
I am good enough.
I am loved.
It's okay to fail as long as I get up and keep trying

I'm pretty sure my mom reminded me of these things because she saw a little girl who dwelled in a constant state of self-doubt and inadequacy. Years later–on a day like today–I repeat her lessons and hold myself accountable to the idea that sometimes success is simply showing up and giving it the best I got.