Lessons in leadership and life - thanks to my mom

Over the last week, I have been off the social grid, focused on our family as we grieved the passing of a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and dear friend – the loss of my mom.?I had the opportunity on Friday to meet with a group of ladies who she painted with every week during retirement.?They had gathered for their weekly painting group, and to celebrate my mom.?In that visit with this wonderful group, it underscored lessons in leadership and life from my mom – traits she carried right until her last hours – that I wanted to share with each of you.

1.?Be a continuous learner.

My mother was a lifelong learner. A graduate of the Civic Hospital of Ottawa nursing school, she initially worked at two hospitals. And while balancing being a mother of two young children, a full-time nursing position, and continuing her studies, she became a manager of Occupational Health and Safety with the City of Ottawa, and then eventually led the function at Children’s Hospital. In her retirement years, she pursued a variety of different crafts and activities – always in pursuit of learning.?In retrospect, she demonstrated how life continues to offer new and exciting opportunities if we eagerly lean in with an inquisitive spirit to learn, whether in the form of formal education, training, reading, new projects, or mentor relationships. While we never debated the topic of skills versus degrees, I know her take was always a simple one:?just keep learning.

2.?Take care of your people.

Devoted in service to others, my mother modeled a life of servant leadership. Whether tending to patients, leading teams, or supporting family and friends, she was eager to take care of those around her. Her joy was undoubtedly made complete by serving others. In turn, she had an array of people who believed in her and continued multi-decade connections with her, which has been so evident the last few days.

3.?Rise up to the challenge.

Despite various hardships, my mother exhibited what it means to be resilient in the face of adversity. She fearlessly confronted setbacks with resolve, making the most of every opportunity to grow. Her resilience showed me the value of hard work, and I witnessed firsthand how challenges are often valuable opportunities for those willing to rise to the occasion. She was strong and never backed down from a challenge, including her most recent health challenges.

?4.?It’s okay to lead with heart – and often preferred.

As Maya Angelou said, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but?people will never forget how you made them feel.” My mother, best known for her roles as wife, mother, nana, sister, colleague, and friend, fiercely loved her family and broad group of friends, and always demonstrated care.

On Friday, the painting group shared they will always remember her smile, her sense of humor, and how serious she was about learning.?I greatly admire all of these attributes and will strive to role model in her memory. ?

As I reflect on the impact she made on so many lives around her, I am reminded of the importance of living with intentionality, empathy, and care each and every day. It is with this heart I will continue to carry her legacy of love. My mother’s lessons in leadership will continue to inspire and drive me, and I hope you find value in these as well.