In addition to being an entrepreneur and reality television star, Shaunie O’Neal is a mother of five. Although she has an ambitious schedule, the former NBA wife of Shaquille O’Neal places her kids ahead of the tide by incorporating their plans into her agenda.  As the reality television star puts it, “My kids have a bigger social calendar than I do.” From football practice to business meetings, the O’Neal house is always on the go. Although everyone in the house has personal plans, the O’Neal family does not compromise on values. There are four golden rules that Shaunie and her children live by when interacting with family, friends, and business:

“Dinner. Together. No matter what.”

Although everyone is busy with personal ambitions, the O’Neal household sits down as a family and eats dinner every night. Shaunie believes that regardless of an ambitious schedule, family time is non-negotiable.

“Control what you can”
As a single mother who works full time, it’s difficult for Shaunie to have complete control over all of life’s affairs. Instead of worrying about the unforeseeable, the reality star chooses to make exclusive decisions where she can and leave the rest to fate. If given the choice to film or spend time with her children, Shaunie selects family time; if no such decision is available, the Reality TV star goes with the flow.

“Keep things in perspective”
Shaunie keeps a positive outlook on life by spending time with residents at the Los Angeles Mission. Her and the children make it a practice to serve meals and help parents select gifts for their children during the holidays.

“Don’t sleep on the crock pot”
As Shaunie states, “For single parents, crock pots are your friend.” Her advice is to embrace chili and roasted chicken nights.

Read Shaunie’s full interview with Huffington Post.

Check out a recent picture of Shaunie and her kids below!

Photos:Essence/Huffington Post