May 11th is Mother’s Day. To some it’s a big deal and to others, not so much. Either way, we are full of advice for successfully navigating the day.

Blues

I am breaking with Color Code tradition by beginning this advice with the Blues. Why? Because, I’m afraid those of you with Blue mothers will fade before you get to the Blue advice, and that would be a big mistake—BIG. So, pay attention.

Let’s talk about your Blue mother. All your life, she was there for you. She was the mother who volunteered for your field trips, cake bake, sports… the list goes on. She drove you to school when you slept in, and believed you when you fibbed. She made sure your laundry was done perfectly, even after you went to college. She worried that you weren’t eating right, sharing your thoughts, being safety minded… and again, the list goes on. She lived for you.

Best mother EVER.

But, (and this is a big but), your mother can be a martyr. While she has been indulgent, devoted and single-minded in raising you, she does require acknowledgement of these selfless acts.

In your mother’s case it is the thought that counts. Set aside some time, sit down and write her a long and sincere letter. Tell her how much you appreciate everything she’s done—and be specific. Remember things from your childhood, because you can bet she does. Do not (even playfully), criticize her in your letter. It will be her main focus. Otherwise, you will be her hero for a very long time.

Reds

Red mothers are very different from their Blue counterparts. Your mother took an interest in your life, but in a less nurturing way. She was there for you, just less emotionally. She always gave good feedback and good advice (maybe too much sometimes) in a way that left no question that she was right. She expected you to look good, act well, be appropriate, and measure up to her own high standard.

She is the most likely of mothers to view Mother’s Day as a frivolous “Hallmark Holiday”. Still, don’t think for a second that her disdain for the holiday will give you a free pass. Your mother demands respect, and ignoring her on Mother’s Day is disrespectful. For your mother, the best gift is respectful acknowledgement. If you have children, make sure they acknowledge her as well. Never give your Red mother anything that says world’s greatest mom, grandma, etc.

White

Your mother is the kindest and gentlest of all mothers. While growing up, she showed you patience and care. She was able to endure any problem you could throw at her without getting ruffled. She had a quiet elegance, and fortitude. She wanted to give you the best childhood possible. She wasn’t one to offer direction, because she didn’t want to come across as pushy or demanding. In fact, if anything she could be over-indulgent—hesitant to set boundaries.

Your mother doesn’t like being the center of attention, nor does she appreciate fanfare. However, as with any mother, she appreciates acknowledgement. Celebrate Mother’s Day in a quiet way. Let her know how much you appreciate her, but don’t overdo it. Unlike Blues and Yellows, she won’t appreciate effusiveness.

Yellow

Because of your Yellow mother, your childhood was a whirlwind of ups and downs. She adored you and wanted nothing more than for you to have a fun and happy childhood. Your mother wanted you to experience everything life has to offer. Unfortunately, some of the things life had to offer were, running out of gas, parent-teacher nights sans parent, and other missed commitments. Still, she built your self-confidence like no other parent could.

Unlike Reds, Yellows are all about superficial holidays, or any other holiday—especially one that celebrates them. She won’t care if you remind her of all the crazy things she did. She’ll remember them with mirth. Create a day for her that will celebrate her motherhood. Invite everyone, buy gifts, get party hats… she’ll love it.

Hope this helps. To all you mothers out there, Red, Blue, White and Yellow—Happy Mother’s Day. CC

Teresa Glenn has been working with the Color Code since 2006, where her main focus is product development. She has been in the publishing and product development field for over 20 years. Teresa is a core Red with a strong Yellow secondary.