So, how to become a mom-friend and still maintain respect? Let's start with the fact that for this you need to build a balance. After all, a mother who is too soft risks losing authority, and one who only teaches and instructs risks ending up alone in the hearts of her daughters. So let's figure out how to find this golden mean. Be ready to listen. This is the basis of everything. Being a friend means not only sharing your experience and advice, but also listening. I know how important it is for my daughters to be able to open up to me about anything, from school problems to their first “love” experiences. The ability to listen without interrupting, and most importantly, without judging, is the key to a trusting relationship. Give them freedom, but wisely. My daughters know that they can try something new (be it drawing, sports, or unusual hairstyles), and I am always ready to support them. But freedom does not mean permissiveness! I try to explain why it is important to make the right choices, but I give them space to make their own decisions. This is what friendship is about - I do not control, but I guide. Be an example, but not an ideal. I am not trying to be a super-perfect mother who always knows what to do and how. Sometimes I admit that I am also wrong or do not know what to do next. This teaches my daughters that it is okay to be imperfect, and most importantly - do not be afraid to admit your mistakes and learn from them. Laughter and humor. There is nothing that brings people together like laughing and having fun together. I always try to take life’s challenges with humor, and my daughters teach me the same. We laugh through mistakes and bad luck, and I think this helps keep the relationship light and respectful. Respect personal boundaries. Sometimes my daughters may want to be alone with themselves or with their friends. That’s okay! And it’s important not to pressure them if they don’t want to share something right away. Respecting their personal boundaries and private moments is another way to show that I respect them as individuals, and not just as my responsibility. Honesty. I always tell my daughters the truth, even if it may be a little uncomfortable. This doesn’t mean I don’t try to deliver information gently, but honesty in a relationship is the foundation. This way they see me not only as a mother, but also as a person they can trust. Create traditions. No matter how much the world around us changes, my daughters and I always find time for small family traditions. It can be going to a cafe together, watching movies, or just going for a walk in the fresh air. Such moments strengthen our bond and show that, despite everything that happens, we are always there for each other. Being a mom-friend does not mean becoming “one of them.” It means being there in any situation, supporting, loving, and not being afraid to set boundaries. This is the only way to maintain the respect of our daughters and remain that reliable person they can trust. So, yes, being a mom and a friend is not always easy, but it is really possible. And you know what? It’s wonderful! Mom Marina.