Sure, some people may think that being the mom-like figure in the friend group is pretty lame. Having this title is synonymous with others thinking you're a total party pooper, which can leave you unhappy and without social plans. Some may even think that you "aren't doing life right" or that you should lighten up a little. Being the "mom" comes with all of these false stereotypes, but it also comes with learning how to be trusting, responsible and accountable for others. As a friend-mom myself, I wouldn't trade these important life lessons for anything. Well, except for maybe a new purse, since I can't fit enough snacks in this one.
1. You're a total beast at planning events.
When it comes to organizing anything from a small game night to a large get-together, you switch into Monica Geller mode. You know how to get your place ready, prepare enough food and make sure everyone is having a great time. Plus, everything is the way you want it, so it's pretty much your dream party. The only downside is that you do get super sleepy. But it's worth it!
2. You can get away with declining plans if you really don't feel like going.
Since most people don't expect you to go out anyways, you can always choose to stay in if you feel like binge-watching "Grey's Anatomy" or knitting scarves for your friends. Now if your friends have plans, you always remind them to make good choices when they leave.
3. You appreciate your mom more and more each day.
Being the friend-mom can be exhausting, but it only makes you more thankful for all of the years your mom spent making sure you were safe and happy. Plus, you're grateful for all of those times she made you do things on your own.
4. You're always prepared for everything.
It doesn't matter if you're just going to the gym or going on a road trip with your friends - you always have everything. You're pretty much a modern-day Mary Poppins, with everything from medicine to safety pins in your purse. If anyone needs anything, they know to come straight to you.
5. You know how to take care of others.
If one of your friends has a meltdown, school issues, boy troubles or any illness, you know what to do. You'd like to think you're pretty good at giving confidence boosts to your buddies, and you're the one who pretty much forces the sick friend into consuming vitamin C against their will. No matter how you feel, you always put your friends first.
6. You're the most organized human being you know.
You know you're the "mom" if you make 10 lists a day, mark and cross out things in your planner like it's your job and have everything labeled. The school supply aisle is your happy place, and you love buying even more notebooks to add to your already ridiculous collection.
7. You're really great at making sure your friends attend everything they are supposed to.
You know that your roommate has class at 9 a.m., so when it's 8:45 a.m. and they are still passed out, you physically drag them out of bed. Also, if another one of your friends tries to back out of a date, you're the one who convinces them to suck it up and go.
8. You know your friends' schedules like the back of your hand.
You know that your roommate has tests every Friday, so when she's sitting on her bed munching on Cheetos instead of studying, you scold - I mean, motivate - her.
9. You know how to be independent.
You know how to take care of others and yourself all on your own. Because you were raised to chase after what you want, you know what has to be done in order for you to achieve success. Plus, you know not to waste time with things that don't change your life for the better.
10. You know you will make a kick-ass mom yourself one day.
All of this practice being a second mom to those around you has you at least a little prepared to deal with the future. You've already learned to put those you care about before yourself and you already know how to be super responsible. Being an awesome mother is just something you're destined to be.
