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Reconnecting with Young People

Reconnecting with Young People by Devon Domanski. Recently, I found myself enjoying a Sunday afternoon concert with one of my best friends – FRED PENNER! Yes, that Canadian childhood favourite, Fred Penner. My girlfriend and I danced and sang along to our favourite songs from days gone by. And it was a TRIP to watch a bar packed with parents and kids experience this afternoon of whimsy. When he sang his songs, I listened to his lyrics… sharing, kindness, being…

Inspiration From Nature, Leadership Insights, Self-Improvement

“NATURE IN THE CITY” RETREAT

“NATURE IN THE CITY” Retreat by Devon Domanski. Just a few short weeks ago, the EDGE3 team came together in west Toronto to host another “Ultimate You” retreat. The guests signed up through our network to participate in a day of self-exploration, coaching, action planning, and connection with an amazing group of people. This retreat marked the first time our entire core team (shall I call Dave, Megan, Sarah and I the “fab four”?) had the opportunity to work as…

Coaching Tips, Inspiration From Nature, Self-Improvement

Tapping into the Team’s Resources

Tapping into the Team’s Resources by Devon Domanski. Dave and I were doing an interactive coaching workshop with a group of people that worked in a highly creative field, and wanted to dial into one another to catch up with everyone, share successes and carve out greater efficiencies. We did a lot of different exercises, activities, and reflections to help uncover the roots of their success, and set benchmarks for continued excellence. And then something beautiful happened. We asked the…

Coaching Tips, Inspiration From Nature, Leadership Insights

The Gate is Closed

My intentions for a perfect morning of air travel came to a sudden halt when the check in machine spit out a receipt saying, “We cannot complete your check-in, proceed to the TICKET counter,” NOT the “Proceed to GATE” message I was looking for. I missed my flight. That’s never a good feeling. It gives you a sinking, churning-in-your-gut sensation… similar to bungee jumping – but not nearly as much fun. I took my disappointment to the counter, acknowledging that…

Inspiration From Nature, Leadership Insights, Self-Improvement

How Do I Start The Reset?

How Do I Start The Reset? by Devon Domanski. Sometimes I wish I could be more like my technology; when not performing optimally, just power off or unplug, then restart in hopes of better results. For people, it SHOULD be as easy as turning off and starting again – “I’m going off the grid so I can face the world again, refreshed!!” – it’s sadly not, for many of us. Aside from why you don’t really NEED a reset, or…

Coaching Tips, Inspiration From Nature, Self-Improvement

The Greatest Show On Earth

Every day we have a free, all access pass to the greatest show on earth. Some of us view it from our window, while the rest of us can go for a short walk to capture an unobstructed view. Two shows daily, and no need to RSVP, or order tickets. There is no expectation other than to pause and take notice. The curtain rises in the morning and the sun hits the stage for a breathtaking opening act. What am I…

Coaching Tips, Inspiration From Nature

Make a World of Difference

I’ve always believed that the smallest gestures with the purest intention can make the biggest difference. That is why I continue to participate in the TriAdventure and to support the Nikibasika program; a small but mighty group committed to a powerful cause. In August, I’ll be joining a team of athletes to swim 3km, run 15km, canoe 15km and cycle 140km to fund an orphanage in Uganda. For the first many years the event provided these 51 vulnerable kids with food…

Inspiration From Nature, Self-Improvement

Comfortable with being uncomfortable

After 16 years of living in the same area, we are making the move to a different neighbourhood. It has been an emotional journey that has reminded me that change is not always comfortable. As a coach, I encourage my clients to step out of their comfort zone and embrace change, but perhaps rather than pushing out of what’s comfortable, we should gently ease into the discomfort, and slowly accept the change. Not too long ago I was facilitating a…

Business Building, Inspiration From Nature, Leadership Insights

Breaking the Ice

  It was one of those magical days that I’ve only experienced a few times before, a hot sunny day in April when the ice on the lake begins to thaw.  It lasts for only a short time when something gives and the thick layer of ice turns to slush.  It’s the most amazing time to be in a kayak! With every stroke you chip away at what has been still for months and with new life the ripples are…

Coaching Tips, Inspiration From Nature, Leadership Insights

May I fill your cup?

May I fill your cup? by Devon Domanski. Recently I had occasion to visit one of my favourite youngsters while he was on the mend at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto. I wanted him to know ‘Auntie Devon’ was cheering for him, and do whatever I could to make his parents more comfortable over the weekend. While those were my primary intentions, I almost feel guilty admitting how inspiring the experience was. The staff at the hospital was wonderful –…

Coaching Tips, Inspiration From Nature, Self-Improvement