This May, we reflect on gracious leadership, personal growth, and meaningful connections.
Celebrating Mother's Day – May 11th
It's May, and Mother's Day is just around the corner on May 11th here in North America. While this holiday is celebrated on different days around the world, the sentiment remains the same: honoring the mother figures in our lives. From mothers to aunts, grandmothers, sisters, and close friends, many people play nurturing roles and deserve recognition.
Let's raise a toast to those women who have influenced, supported, and shaped our lives—whether through love, wisdom, or simply being there when we needed them most.
Kathleen from our office often shares fond stories of her super cool aunt, a woman with a wonderful personality who positively impacted her life in countless ways. It's these relationships, big or small, that remind us of the power of love, support, and guidance.
For me, the trait that stands out most in the women who've shaped my life is graciousness—something my mother embodied and my mother-in-law continues to demonstrate.
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1. Acknowledge the Little Things
Take a moment to reflect on everything your mom (or special person) has done for you—big and small. A simple thank-you for their constant support and sacrifices can mean the world.
2. Create a Thoughtful Experience
A handwritten note, a homemade meal, or quality time together—whatever it is, creating something with love shows that you value the relationship, not just the occasion.
3. Show Empathy and Patience
Remember, not everyone finds this day easy. Some might be grieving, while others may feel overwhelmed. Being gracious means offering kindness and understanding, especially when the day looks different for different people.
4. Express Your Feelings
Don't assume someone knows how much you care. Be explicit in expressing your gratitude through words or actions, and acknowledge the sacrifices and lessons that have shaped you.
5. Give Space for Others
Graciousness also means allowing others to be celebrated. In group settings, stepping back and letting others have their moment of appreciation is a great way to show respect.
Ultimately, sincerity is what makes any gesture meaningful. Whether big or small, graciousness shines when your actions are grounded in a genuine desire to uplift and show respect.
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The Neuroscience of Navigation – The Mapless
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I recently came across a fascinating book: Dark and Magical Places: The Neuroscience of How We Navigate by Christopher Kemp. It delves into the science behind human navigation and spatial awareness, showing how our brains process space and help us find our way.
Kemp opens with the story of a hiker who, after a nap, couldn't find her way out. He weaves cutting-edge neuroscience with personal anecdotes—including his own struggles with spatial disorientation as someone who identifies as "mapless."
Did you know our hippocampus creates cognitive maps of our surroundings? Or that specialized "grid cells" and "place cells" fire in specific patterns as we move through space? Kemp explains these mechanisms—discovered through Nobel Prize-winning research—in a way that's easy to understand.
What's most fascinating is how Kemp reveals that navigation abilities vary from person to person. Some people have an excellent sense of direction, while others, like me, may struggle. Cognitive psychologist Nora Newcombe found that about a third of her research subjects don't seem to form a cognitive map at all. She asks, "Why do people think there would be one answer that fits everyone—whether rats or humans?"
This idea encourages us to be kinder and more understanding of those who struggle with navigation. Embracing these differences, both at home and in the workplace, can help foster better communication and empathy.
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Leadership Workshop & Wellness Series
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Recently, I had the opportunity to present to the Rotaract Club of Vancouver Young Professionals (ages 25–40) on Mastering Workplace Happiness and How to Thrive. In the talk, I offered practical strategies for achieving a more fulfilling work-life balance, boosting motivation, reducing stress, and finding joy in your career.
Before the workshop, I asked attendees: What would you like to learn? Here’s a snapshot of their thoughtful responses:
1) How to stay motivated or increase motivation at work
2) Finding better work-life balance
3) Managing curiosity, stress, and happiness
4) Getting more involved without getting overwhelmed
5) Improving the work environment
6) Cultivating workplace happiness sustainably
These conversations sparked rich dialogue. One participant, Giri Prasad Ram, a Business Analyst at Fraser Health, beautifully summarized the session:
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Thank you to Mr. Ram for capturing these insights so well.
This group reminded me that today’s young professionals are seeking more than a paycheck—they crave leadership rooted in transparency, empowerment, and meaningful work.
It was truly inspiring to exchange ideas with such a passionate and thoughtful audience, all committed to doing their best work without burning out—and to prioritizing wellness along the way.
If you’re looking to inspire and ignite your team, I’d love to help.
Reach out to me at info@greenngreen.com
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It's a busy season for special events, golf tournaments, tradeshows and conferences. Timelines are tighter, and custom designs and logos may take longer. If you have an upcoming golf tournament or special event, let us help you find the perfect gift!
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