Sunday Leadership Story
As I work on my book about leadership, I find it fun to think back on my own journey as a leader and the stories that lie deep within my heart.
Five years ago, I was feeling burned out and in great need of a break. I am sharing this in the context of how I was loving the work I was doing but felt like something had to “give” or was truly “missing.”
As an entrepreneur since 1990 and being “solo,” I have always made space in my life for what I like to call “heart-learning moments.”
My friend’s mother (Sharon) was palliative. They had been through six different personal support workers, and they were frustrated and in great need of hope that they could and would find the right caring, empathetic person.
I looked at my schedule and knew I could shift clients around and help them in the interim. I knew I could easily move into this role because I had worked as a volunteer at a local hospice and was an expert in medical rehabilitation.
I started with one day per week to relieve some anxiety for the family.
One day quickly became two, and then three.
It was the best 9 months of my life.
I brought all my leadership skills and showed up as a heart-centered leader.
Sharon had not been out of her home in one year. We developed a plan together and made it happen.
Sharon’s wish list continued.
I worked with Sharon to remove the barriers, set up our weekly adventures, and completed them one by one.
One of her daughters asked me why I would do this job. It paid minimum wage when I could be thriving and making good money in my coaching business. I listened carefully and responded, “It’s not about the money.”
The memories that are captured in my mind and heart will last my lifetime.
The friendship I have with Sharon’s daughters is priceless.
Sharon taught me many things.
I taught Sharon many things.
It was a serendipitous time when the stars aligned.
It felt right.
One of her last wishes was to take the train to Toronto, Ontario, see the CN Tower, and have a steak dinner! The photo below was of that beautiful day and our last outing. 💜
Sharon passed on July 3, 2019, and I was honoured to be asked to give the eulogy at her funeral. 💜
