A 21-year-old woman has revealed the six strict rules her mother imposed during her upbringing, which she now credits for her academic achievements. Abi Cooper, who posts on TikTok as @lifewithabicooper, shared the rules in a video, explaining that while she once thought them 'outrageous, unreasonable and unfair', she now understands their value.
Abi, who achieved all A's and A*'s at school, studied law at a top-10 university, graduated with a first, and is now training to become a solicitor, said: 'I honestly think my mum's rules back then have really shaped me into the person I am now.' Her mother, who did not attend university, placed a strong emphasis on education.
The first rule required the three sisters to read physical books or on a Kindle every evening until they were 16 or 17. Abi said this instilled a love of reading that continues into adulthood. The second rule strictly regulated iPad use, with time limits and educational apps—such as spelling games and times tables—required before games could be played. The only app allowed after restrictions was one on country flags and capitals, which Abi says made her and her sisters 'fairly good' at them.
The third rule focused on continuous improvement: even when Abi met school milestones, her mother always encouraged her to aim higher, fostering a strong work ethic. The fourth and fifth rules banned phones at the dinner table and required each child to bring a political opinion backed by evidence. Abi said this developed critical thinking and knowledge of current affairs, with no topic off-limits.
The final rule involved completing extra homework, including SATs papers, before the final year of primary school. If a child struggled in a subject, their mother would arrange tutoring. Abi acknowledged that the rules instilled discipline and work ethic in her and her sisters.
Responding to a TikTok user who asked if the high expectations led to a 'not good enough' complex, Abi replied: 'Nope! Hard work was encouraged and my sisters and I always had huge goals and my parents just continuously encouraged that.'
