Happy Mother’s Day to moms everywhere!

No vacations, no salary, screaming bosses, dealing with poop and vomit. It truly is the #WorldsToughestJob, as evidenced in this recent ad.

Haven’t seen it yet? It’s definitely worth a watch — and, wow, I guess it also goes without saying that Mom has probably picked up a few pointers for dealing with some discomfort, disappointment and delayed gratification along the way.

Which is why we need take her up on that advice…if not for life, at least for your next workout or race. You can thank her later.

“When God closes a door, he opens a window.”

Got injured and had to drop out before that big race? Been there. Didn’t hit your paces or snag that PR…again? Done that.

As frustrating as it feels when things don’t go as planned, try to roll with the punches, keep an open mind and find the growth opportunity in every situation.

“Always be curious.”

Without curiosity and learning there is no growth or forward motion, so don’t be afraid to explore.

Mix up your weekly workout regimen, add in a new form of cross-training, test out a different training program. You won’t know until you give it a shot, and you just may be pleasantly surprised with the results.

“Approach life with a light heart.”

From funny race photos to mid-workout flatulence, from getting lost on trails to losing your lunch in front of people, there’s a good chance something embarrassing will happen sooner or later while you’re breaking a sweat.

In every occurrence, find the funny. And surround yourself with like-minded friends who can help change these moments — or even your life — for the better.

“Don’t judge a book by its cover.”

Every time I race I’m reminded of this one. And as much as my ego gets bruised when I’m passed by the 70-year old man in sweats and an old-school pair of gym shoes, it also makes me smile.

The lesson here? As my grade school history teacher said, “Don’t assume anything. You only make an ‘ass’ out of ‘u’ and ‘me.'” No athlete is perfect, but perfection has never been the standard. Where’s the fun in that, anyway?

“You catch more flies with honey than vinegar.”

It goes without saying that you should be nice to others — but remember to hold yourself in the same regard.

Caught up in negative self-talk? Nip it in the bud, and tell that evil voice inside your head to take a hike.

“Never change who you are for someone else.”

When the gun goes off on race day, there’s an explosion of ego and adrenaline. It’s easy to get caught up in it and speed off…only to crash when your body realizes it’s moving at an unsustainable pace.

A better plan: Run your own race. Competition is good. It’s inspiring, and it can bring out the best in us. But real satisfaction comes from self-motivation, so don’t surrender control of this essential asset.

“Don’t underestimate the power of a nap.”

Classic trench coats. Fresh flowers. Good manners. Little black dresses. Some things never go out of style — and a decent nap is one of ’em.

It works like a charm, whether you’re three, 33 or 103. So if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

What are your favorite words of wisdom from Mom?