The Gladstone Way

In the city of Toronto, in the neighborhood of West Queen West sits a cool hotel called the Gladstone. An old 19th century structure, today it serves as a hip, modern, boutique hotel. However, what’s more is that this 37 room spot for the neighborhood is also by the neighborhood. What I mean is that the bars and liquors are local. The fixtures and materials used are local. Art on the wall is by local artists. The rooms are designed and decorated individually by, you guessed it, locals. A living, breathing example of the power of creativity, connection, and community. What can happen when you bring diverse people together in a way that allows them to showcase their unique skills, abilities, or ways of thinking. The result can be something really special. Are you a connector? Do you thrive in knowing what people can offer to you, one another, or each other? I think as an athlete I was taught to simultaneously get things done on my own and cooperate with others. As an entrepreneur, you are often required early on to wear all of the hats that are required to run a business (large or small). As such, I can get caught up in just doing things on my own, putting my head down, and not always reaching out to share the load. Of course this is fine sometimes, but it can be at the cost of bringing other unique talents and mindsets into the space. Staying at the Gladstone reminded me that there is another way, the Gladstone Way…and it’s pretty hip.