What Is the Best Advice You Received From Your Dad?

Real Simple readers share the paternal words of wisdom that have proved to be true in their lives, time and again.

My father says, “If you want something done, ask a busy person to do it.” And he should know: He’s an incredibly industrious doctor who manages to get to know his patients well, play ball with his grandchildren, and pursue countless hobbies. In my own life, I’ve discovered that I am more productive when I have more going on.
Kim Prywes Bloomberg
Chicago, Illinois

Before I got married, my father advised me to avoid complaining about my husband to my friends. If you don’t hash out problems with your spouse, he said, you might start harboring resentment toward him or cause your friends to view him negatively. Because of this sound guidance, my marriage is thriving.
Lara Carr Winton
Pinson, Alabama

You don’t have to answer the phone just because it rings. My dad always felt that if he was with a family member or a friend, that person took precedence over whoever might be calling. He taught me to focus on the people I’m with, regardless of the situation. After all, they deserve my full attention.
Jessica Barr-Gabriel
Okotoks, Alberta

The best advice my father ever gave was passed down from his dad: Never try to solve problems at night, because they always seem worse than they do in the morning. Though I sometimes lack the self-control to follow this sage suggestion, I’ve learned over the years that it’s true. Darkness can make even the smallest obstacle seem insurmountable.
Laura Sinrod
New York, New York

Everything—especially when it comes to gardening. Thanks to my dad’s smarts, I know that I should check the average date for the last frost in my region before I start spring planting. I only hope that one day my backyard will be as enviable as his.
Kristin Monaco
Washington, D.C.

To avoid the blues, my dad said, you should always have something to look forward to. Now when I’m in a bad mood, I find myself thinking about that “something”—a sunny vacation spot, a trip to a café, or even a good-night hug from my boys.
Amy Canby
Englewood, Colorado