Is being an optimist and idealist a strength or a weakness? A compliment or a criticism? To some, being idealistic might suggest naivety, and being optimistic could be seen as wishful thinking. However, I don't see myself as either naive or simply hopeful.

I believe that things can be better and that there is an abundance of everything to go around. My late mother used to remind me that "life isn't fair," Now, I understand she meant that things don't always go our way, but that’s perfectly fine.

I believe in improvement, but I don't just wait for it to happen. Every day, I wake up knowing it's my responsibility to contribute and my privilege that I can. I firmly believe in the rule of reciprocity: if you are prepared to give, you get more in return.

In hospitality, contribution is as simple as a smile. The ripple effects are always greater than the act itself, and what a privilege it is to have that impact on others!

Trusting others can sometimes lead to disappointment, (and I have dramatic and devastating stories about broken trust.) However, I still believe in unconditional positive regard and meeting others as equals who share my enthusiasm for building trusting relationships.

I set clear boundaries, offering compassion and forgiveness, but I also know when to walk away.

It is a privilege to be both optimistic and idealistic, and I use that privilege to support others, build relationships, foster partnerships, and collaborate effectively. I offer leadership when appropriate and know when to step back and allow others to grow.

The best mentors understand that when they do their job well, their mentees will outgrow them.

With my clients, my greatest objective is to impart all my years of knowledge, experience, and expertise and then offer them the leg up they need. In short, this is the history of all human progress!