Last week I was contemplating how I could do more by doing a little bit less, but it hadn’t occurred to me that there was even a possibility of being if I’m not busy.

Inspired by a podcast I truly don’t give myself enough time for, Hurry Slowly, the host Jocelyn K. Glei gave me something to think about. She was asked one question that threw her, and me, for a few loops.

Who are you without the doing?

I’m going to leave it there for now because this isn’t a Q&A, and I admit I don’t have an answer for you. Ask yourself though, who are you without all of that stuff you’re doing, working on, trying, experiencing… Who are you?

As I continue to challenge myself with answering that question, I’ve decided there’s one thing I can commit to being: grateful. This will require *some* doing on my part, but in the spirit of Maya’s #MondayMotivation, I’ve decided to start a new initiative in 2019: #GratitudeTuesday (like a year-round #GivingTuesday). I have had the pleasure of serving alongside mentors, colleagues, and friends. I have been granted opportunities to speak at and facilitate for audiences in Canada and in the United States. I have been able to see policies changed, and new habits develop, as a result of challenging and necessary work around diversity, inclusion and equity. I have added capacity to a new* Board (*new to me), putting knowledge and expertise to work with an exceptional and passionate team. I have had the pleasure of continuing the work of numerous Boards, with a renewed excitement and drive for change. For those experiences, and so many more, I am grateful. It may not be a surprise to some if I forgot a highlight of this year, which is why I’m challenging myself to share them more often – in the moment, while they’re still fresh in my mind.

Are there things that you’re grateful for? Share them – with your colleague, friend, family member, bus driver, anyone at all!