For nearly every person, their first management experience starts at home—with mom at the helm of a business called “the family,” running the household, strategizing educational goals, accounting for successes and missteps, and making sure that human resources run smoothly.

And while many moms have become successful executives, entrepreneurs, and business owners, their experience on the home front continues to fuel their success in the boardroom. For some, like Zac Posen's mother, her real market value is so significant that he decided to bring her into his business to help run the brand.

“My mom taught me patience,” says Kara Goldin, CEO of the flavored-water company Hint. “She taught me to really listen and make decisions.” Now that she's a mom of four, she says her kids are the source of many lessons. “They're the best focus group out there, because they always tell the truth. If they like something, they'll tell you. And if they hate something, they'll be very specific about it and have no problem telling you exactly where you went wrong,” she adds.

Some other sage advice:

Denise McVey, mom of a three-year-old and president of Boonton, New Jersey-based S3, an agency specializing in advertising, marketing, and public relations.

1. You have to look in the mirror tomorrow, so conduct yourself in a way you can be proud of today.
2. Never rely on anyone else for your success; it’s your job to do your job.
3. Money cannot buy happiness—but the two are not mutually exclusive either.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Daymond John, author of The Brand Within: The Power of Branding from Birth to the Boardroom, celebrity investor, and head of clothing company FUBU.

1. Always look people in the eye—not only when conducting business. It brings about trust, shows them you're serious about your pitch, and shows respect.
2. Think big, because it takes just as much energy to reach for the moon as it does to think small.
3. Be honest. When you don't know the answer to a business question, admit that, show that you know how—or where—to get it, and move on.

Hana Rubin, CEO, the Maxon Company, which specializes in total benefit administration; stop loss insurance; preferred provider programs; pharmacy benefit management; COBRA/HIPPA administration; HRA’s, HSA’s, and Section 125 administration (flex plans).

1. Try new things, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but learn to be responsible with money—and trust your instincts.
2. Be fair and compassionate.
3. Follow your dreams. You can do anything you want to do.