Fall 2021
There’s a quote from the Dalai Lama that has been top of mind over the past few weeks:
"Open your arms to change, but don’t let go of your values."
How do you feel about change? While each seasonal shift is an adjustment, I think of autumn in particular as a time of great change. We celebrate the changing colours of the leaves, and change our clocks. We adjust to shorter days, and pull out warmer clothes. For parents, children and education workers, it marks the start of a new school year, and for me it brings a new fiscal year.
There’s something comforting about this predictable, dependable type of change. But what about changes that are harder to embrace? The ones that push us outside of our comfort zone...or even push up against our boundaries. How do you know the difference between the temporary discomfort - or ‘growing pain’ - that accompanies progress, and the more insidious aches that act as a warning sign that something is not right?
It all comes back to values.
When you’re faced with a challenging situation, ask yourself: How come this doesn’t feel right? Is it aligned with my values? If not, which value is in conflict? Ask this of yourself with genuine curiosity, and remember to speak to yourself like you would speak to your best friend; with kindness and compassion.
In Case You Missed It: Back to School with the Wisdom of Mr. Choy
Throughout September, I shared daily posts inspired by the wisdom of Mr. Choy. Roland Choy was the father of a dear friend. His calm, thoughtful presence had an immense impact on my life. It was a pleasure to revisit my notes, examine his quotes, and reflect on our time together.
I wanted to take a moment and thank the Choy family for allowing me the privilege of sharing Mr. Choy’s words of wisdom. From the many responses I received, it’s clear that his insights continue to bring peace and inspiration to so many of us. I am smiling knowing we are fulfilling his goal of continuing to bring joy and comfort to others.
To read more about Mr. Choy and his wisdom check out the post on my website, or join the conversation on LinkedIn or Facebook.
Launching Soon: New 'Tranquility Talk' with Meg Daly
I recently sat down (virtually) for a ‘Tranquility Talk’ with podcaster Meg Daly. We chatted about the important difference between impact and intent in an episode called “Why Direct Communication Can Literally Save Your Energy As Well As Relationships,” which launches on October 8. You can listen to her show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts.
Bruce Trail Update
After another season of hiking, I am excited to share we've completed 76% of the Bruce Trail, which spans more than 900 km. I can now say I have walked from Niagara Falls to Owen Sound! There were some setbacks - I’ve had to adjust my initial goal of completing the trail by my 50th birthday - but I’ve accepted this reality, and can truly say I am loving the experience and am so proud to have worked through the challenges.
What new adventures have you undertaken lately? Is there a goal you’ve had to adjust or re-conceptualize? How did you deal with it? I’d love to hear your stories!
To follow my Bruce Trail adventures, search #GYECHikes on LinkedIn and Facebook!
Stay Tuned for the Word of the Year!
2022 might seem far away, but it’s just around the corner! My fiscal year began on October 1, and I consider this an opportunity to get ahead of the curve, prepare for the upcoming calendar year, and reflect on the past year in anticipation of the one to come. In the weeks leading up to 2022, I invite you to contemplate your own word of the year! Consider the lessons you’ve learned over the past 12 months, where you want to end up, and what you’ll need in order to get there. I look forward to sharing my word of the year, and to hearing yours!
"Open your arms to change, but don't let go of
your values."
Dalai Lama