Where did you grow up and what was your childhood like? Did you have any particular experiences/stories that shaped your adult life?

My family emigrated to Canada (Vancouver) when I was 9. I grew up here in Vancouver and had a pretty great childhood. My father was building his business reputation and climbing the socio-economic ladder – and my sister and I never did without. Even if we were the “poor kids” on the block – we were not aware of that.

Ironically, though, that did come back to haunt me later on, as I think I developed expensive taste – and really had no business spending what I did on things.

What is something you wish you would’ve realized earlier in your life?

I wish I had learned business skills earlier on in life.

What are bad recommendations you hear in your profession or area of expertise?

I’m not sure I do hear any.

Tell me about one of the darker periods you’ve experienced in life. How you came out of it and what you learned from it?

I was divorced in my mid-twenties’ and found myself alone with a toddler – having to fend for myself and get back in the workforce unexpectedly. It was difficult, and my self-esteem was very low. It took a while to climb out of that hole financially and emotionally.

What is one thing that you do that you feel has been the biggest contributor to your success so far?

I think my belief in myself, and my strength as a teacher/trainer have contributed to my recent success. I build trust with people and make sure I over-deliver also. I am self-taught when it comes to running my own business – and I think asking questions and learning from mentors has been key.

What is your morning routine?

I am not an early riser. I am up between 7:30 am – 8 am. I get ready for my day and check my emails and social media. Then I prep for any training I’m doing that day.
Breakfast shake – and into a training session.

What habit or behavior that you have pursued for a few years has most improved your life?

It’s important to me to complete my day’s tasks that involve others – and to always do what I said I would do. Communication is important to me, as is my word.

What are your strategies for being productive and using your time most efficiently?

My strategies for being productive are to time block. I know my best time to book training sessions with clients is between 10 – 12 and 1:30 – 3:30 pm and I fill the other
times with prospecting calls, networking calls, and if I have a big project I need to work on I block that out specifically.

What book(s) have influenced your life the most? Why?

The Power of Human Connection – by Kody Bateman
Because it speaks to relationships and the value of building know, like and trust with people.

Do you have any quotes you live by or think of often?

My favorite quote is:
People will forget what you said, People will forget what you did,
But they will never forget how you made them feel.
– Maya Angelou –