We asked some of the best parents we know to tell us about the most important thing they’ve done as parents and have shared their wisdom below.

Kristin Cowart Pierce | Founder & CEO, BRAVE Public Relations & Author, Mommies Work

I have always worked full-time, but I fully believe my most important role is being a mother to my son and daughter. We go to school, pursue internships, train for our jobs, but there’s no training for being a parent other than life experience. My husband and I decided early on that our children were not going to be overprotected or overindulged. We believe strongly in teaching our kids to be self-reliant, resourceful, ethical and compassionate — and we wholeheartedly embrace the concept of “grit.” Read more>>

Jason Rayford | 1983 The Brand

My children and the family i have created is thee best thing in my life. I have a son and a daughter and as their father i strive to make sure they understand that hard work and dedication pays off! I want to show my children that they come from greatness. I grew up watching my grandfather and my father work extremely hard to maintain a legacy to be carried on and on. This is my job now, and this is why i go hard everyday to make my business and the brand I’ve created into something bigger than me. My children deserve to have a life where there is no struggle or hassle; therefore,I pray that the harder i work and set the right examples of balancing life, acquiring knowledge, and having the right amount of love and motivation will surely have a major impact on how they choose to continue our family legacy. As a man this is the most important thing to me. Read more>>

Timeesha Diggins | Hair Stylist

As a parent we want the best for our children. With that in mind I choose to relocate my kids to a more family involved state. A place where they could enjoy being a kid and enjoy their surroundings. Read more>>

Poetic Pleasure | Poet I Event Producer & Host I Mother of Two I Spelman Woman

In life, there are some unexpected events that may occur beyond our control. As a mother, I have worked extremely hard to make sure that in spite of extenuating circumstances that arised, my children still have what they need. Recently, my children and I lost all of our material possessions in our home and even some loved ones. We were even displaced for a great length of time during this journey. One of the most valuable lessons I have taught my children is to persevere and push through even in pain. My children have been there each step of the way seeing my tears and hearing me cry even in my silence. Many saw us on a daily basis and had no clue of what we were experiencing. Read more>>