Things I am Thankful for, in Business and in Life

So since it’s Thanksgiving (in Canada), I thought it was fitting to make a post about what I am thankful for. Truthfully, I am not a big Thanksgiving person, I was never a fan of traditional Thanksgiving food. But I do like the concept of enjoying a meal with friends and family and being conscious of what we are thankful for. Lately, I have been in a super reflective mode, which usually happens as the year approaches an end. So, I have really been thinking about what I am happy and thankful for and where I want to see changes. This year, I have especially been thinking about my business, what I am thankful to my clients for, where I want to go with my business etc. 

I think it is important to actually state what we are thankful for (more often than just at Thanksgiving time). Because it puts things into perspective. When we focus on the good, naturally more good comes. 

Before I get into my list I wanted to start some photos of a project I am in the midst of. This is a house I am working on in Greek Town, Toronto.

If you’re ever in the area I would recommend grabbing lunch at Messini’s. The portions are huge and you will end up looking 8 months pregnant by the end of your meal. But it’s certainly delicious and a great value.

I actually spent this summer in southern Europe, and 2 of those weeks were spent in beautiful Greece. I am itching to go back already. The food was incredible. Ever since I have been back I have been checking out all the Greek restaurants in downtown Toronto, but none of them compare. This Thanksgiving I am actually planning on making a Greek dessert called “galaktoboureko”, which I already know will be a hit! All this to say is that I am thankful for food and love Greek food.   

Here is how the kitchen is looking. My client wanted something super simple and classic. The rest of the home is still in progress, follow me on Instagram to keep up with this project. 

5 things I am thankful for

1. My clients who have unwavering trust in me 

First of all, I am very thankful for all my clients. But, there is a special place in my heart for clients who FULLY trust me. As a designer, there are times (most times) when I get some out-there ideas. And my perspective is, when working with a designer, you should lean into their out-there ideas because that’s where the magic happens. The thing is, you really need to believe in these out-there ideas. Sometimes, clients just don’t want to take the risk. And that’s okay, but when people hire me to recreate a Pinterest photo I feel like they’re really missing out on something unique and out of the ordinary.

So, the clients who allow me to really do my thing get extra brownie points from me. All of my best projects to date were with clients who really just let go of control.

I think that might be a good lesson in life as well. Sometimes we truly need to let go of control and surrender to the unknown- trusting that it will all work out.

2. I am thankful for the trials and tribulations in business and life

This might be a strange thing to be thankful for. But honestly, in retrospect, I am truly thankful for all the bullshit I’ve been through. It’s kind of cliche to say, but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. And I’ve been through a lot of BS in life and running my business. I share plenty of stories on my blog. But in the end, I always learn really valuable lessons and these lessons force me to change and grow. The experiences I’ve had really made me take a look at myself, and my business practices and take accountability for it all. And most importantly, figure out how and what I need to change in order to get different results. I am just truly thankful for life and all the experiences that life brings me. Because that is what life is, a ton of experiences. 

3. All design/ trade professionals 

I am thankful for all of the people who make my visions a reality. Sure, I can come up with super cool concepts and designs. But I cannot actually do the physical work myself. So, without all the lovely individuals who have dedicated their lives to their craft, my designs would not be able to come to fruition. I am thankful for the awesome contractors, sales associates and all the others (soooo many to name) who make my job possible.

4. My friends and family 

Obviously, this one should be a given! I am forever thankful for my friends and family who are my main supporters. There’s not much more that I have to say about that. Lol.

5. Artists 

As an artist myself, there are times when I have a bit of artist’s block, meaning I don’t feel creative or inspired enough to create. However, what helps me is other artists in the world. It’s truly incredible to see what some people are up to. I am also really thankful because I live in downtown Toronto, so I am always around creatives who inspire me. Also, it’s great that we can share our artwork so easily now. There is just so much inspiration and information available at our fingertips and I feel like we take that for granted at times. 

So, that is my list of 5 things I am thankful for this Thanksgiving. Of course, there are plenty more things that I am thankful for. I wish everyone a great Thanksgiving. And I hope that everyone reflects on what they are thankful for (at least for a few minutes).