Karri Bell
My mom taught me to “examine myself and my actions, assume responsibility for them, implement changes as needed, and then focus on how I can extend help to others.”
(Excerpt from an interview with Tim Badolato, CEO & Founder of eCardWidget, Happy Husband & Father)
Missouri, USA
Growing up in California, my mother was surrounded by an abundance of orchards. Even as a child, she was a self-starter, constantly taking the initiative to seek out or create opportunities. To earn her own money, she would head to the orchards and pick fruits for cash. She has always been driven to succeed, and that work ethic has been with her from a very young age.
My mom made the most of the opportunities that came her way. While raising me, she worked, pursued her degree, and managed side businesses—all simultaneously. She juggled all these responsibilities and excelled at each one. She began working at the City Hall while studying to become an accountant, eventually climbing the ranks to become the City Treasurer, a position she has held for over 20 years. She's a true inspiration and an incredibly hard worker.
Living in a touristy area, I remember accompanying my mom as a young boy while she checked on vacation homes for clients. She had a massive bucket of keys and would visit each house, ensuring everything was in order. At the same time, she and my dad began building homes, rehabilitating properties, and renting them out. She built a successful business with my dad, supporting his dreams while taking care of financials, administration, and everything in between.
Mom was clearly a woman who makes no excuses, she’s a go getter, and also uses her blessings to bless others. I credit my entrepreneurial spirit to her; she truly is a role model who taught me to make the most out of every opportunity. This mindset is what led me to found eCardWidget, a platform allowing businesses and non-profits to send e-cards. My journey began in high school with a marketing web design business, which eventually led me to develop software. When my church's youth pastor asked if I could create a tool to help people invite friends to events, I developed an e-card form for their website. Since then, it has evolved into a tool used by over 4,000 companies and organizations.
As a child, my mom quickly corrected me whenever I tried to make excuses or blame others for my shortcomings. For instance, when I tried to blame my teachers for poor grades, she challenged my perspective and taught me to take responsibility for my own actions. My mom taught me to “examine myself and my actions, assume responsibility for them, implement changes as needed, and then focus on how I can extend help to others.” This lesson has profoundly influenced my business, personal, spiritual, and family life.
Instead of solving my problems for me, my mom allowed me to find my own solutions. As tempting as it can be for parents to remove their children's obstacles, she let me become an adult and figure things out on my own. Consequently, I matured more quickly than my peers and developed greater wisdom. This style of parenting is something I now practice with my three wonderful children, as I want them to grow up as capable and responsible individuals.
My mom not only instilled essential values within me, but she also emphasized the importance of faith. She made sure I attended church with her and, despite a period of teenage rebellion, remained steadfast in her core principles and trust in God's word. Mom showed me that the bible and my faith are the ultimate source of answers, so when life was dark or difficult for me, it was like I had a compass that brought me back to the right path. Developing an intimate relationship with God and understanding Jesus' role in my salvation has profoundly transformed me. Shortly after this transformation, I met my wife, who has also been a significant spiritual influence in my life, helping me grow and mature in my faith.
A testament to my mom's incredible nature is the fact that my wife adores her mother-in-law. She might even compete in a game to see who loves my mom more! It's truly remarkable to witness their bond, as I know such relationships can be rare. This just goes to show how wonderful my mom is. She's caring and has a strong personality but she never tries to control you. You always know she's there for you. She's honest and straightforward but her words come from a place of love.
I am deeply grateful for my mom and the values she has instilled in me. I also want to thank her for reading "The Little Red Hen" to my wife and me when we were newlyweds. That unique and memorable experience reinforced our understanding of the importance of hard work, self-reliance, and helping others.
Today, I strive to emulate my mom's example in my own life, both as a parent and a business owner. Her drive, determination, and compassionate spirit have inspired me to create opportunities not only for myself but also for others. I believe that my mom's influence has shaped me into the person I am today, and I will always be grateful for her unwavering love and support.
Thank you, Mom!