Today is my mom’s birthday. Happy Heavenly Birthday, Mom!

I am taking a quiet moment to not just think about her (I do that daily as it is) but to reflect on her wisdom, especially during this crazy time.

-> My kids graduate high school in 8 days

-> The official countdown to empty nesting is 88 days

-> We are 3 days into summer break and I’m ready to get an outside-the-home-office

Two pieces of wisdom immediately pop to mind:

1. Education

2. Generational Wealth

Both, I think, are very relevant for us entrepreneurial moms. 

I was raised knowing that I was going to college. It wasn’t an option not to. I was expected to do as well as I was able through high school in order to get into the best college that I could that met my academic, financial, and social needs. Back when I went to school, colleges weren’t as expensive as they are now so most options were on the table for me. I applied to 8 schools. Got into 6 of them. Ended up at The George Washington University. I graduated with no debt which allowed me to take a starting job that earned $16,500 per YEAR.

My kids were raised knowing that they were going to college (or trade school). My kids were expected to do as well as they could in high school in order to get into the best schools that met their financial, academic, and social needs. The cost of education is much different today than when I was applying so financial parameters were set. My daughter applied to 8 schools. Got into 7 of them. My son applied to 6 schools. Got into 5 of them. They both will attend Susquehanna University in the Fall. The expectation is they will graduate with little to no debt.

What does this have to do with generational wealth? And being an entrepreneur?

When entrepreneurs who are moms prioritize higher education, they set a precedent of valuing and investing in learning. This attitude can inspire their children to pursue their own educational goals, leading to better career opportunities and personal development. Higher education often equips individuals with critical thinking skills, adaptability, and specialized knowledge, which are crucial in a rapidly changing economy.

Money saved in educational accounts for children/grandchildren is generational wealth. I am blessed that not only have I saved money for my kids’ tuition but their grandparents did as well. Graduating without debt is a tremendous gift of providing their children with financial stability and opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable. It also provides a safety net that allows them to take calculated risks without the fear of financial ruin (like taking an internship or lower paying job).

My parents left a legacy of giving to me. The legacy perpetuates with me and I hope my kids when it’s their turn. Part of my goals for Serendipitous Rebel is to earmark a share of my earnings for both my retirement and savings accounts for the kids. This is an important part of my purpose and a motivating factor. I know my mom (and dad) are proudly looking down on me!

xoxo

Wendy