Impact

Impact is defined as having a strong effect on someone or something.

And it’s something that’s been on my mind this week. 

I was fortunate to have a coaching session with Kailea Switzer on Monday afternoon. This was something she offered up to a select few of her followers and I was quick enough to put my name on the list. We had a really great conversation and she helped me get some clarity on how I’m spending my time.

Our chat started out with me feeling like I have been putting all (or most) of my time into work. Fishing lobster is a weird schedule, up at 3:45 am and down around 7:00 pm shifts everything and makes it challenging to have much of a social life. Add the prep I need to do for deep sea fishing as we get closer to summer and I don’t have a lot of hours left for anything else. 

What I needed to remember is that I love what I do and these long working hours aren’t the issue at all. It’s how I am spending the rest of my time that I wanted to take a look at. Because I have a lot of energy I find myself wanting to keep working…as a tourism operator this time of year there is always a running to do list so no shortage of things I could put my attention to. 

But I needed something a little more impactful. 

Something larger than myself. 

So I’m now keeping my eye out for opportunities to make an impact. 

I started with writing a letter to our MP on behalf of the charter boats in North Rustico. We are in desperate need of dredging in our harbour so that we don’t miss out on weeks of our short summer season. It felt good to be able to take that on for the group and use my skills towards something that can make an impact. 

I also agreed to be interviewed by a reporter about these concerns to ensure that others realize what a big issue it is. You can find more info on it here. 

And I am going to keep looking for ways to make an impact. 

I am so grateful to live and work in Rustico and I know there is so much I can do for my community. That could be sharing about exciting events happening, the many businesses that people can support or the different needs we have to help make our community better. All of it matters and it always feels good to make an impact. 

I think the ideas are going to keep building now that this awareness is here. I’m excited at the opportunities ahead and look forward to putting my energy into things that light me up and that can help so many others too. 

Making an impact can be as simple as saying hello to someone you pass on the street. It’s something we all have the ability to do. 

If you’re feeling a little lost or like you're spinning, I encourage you to stop and reflect on where you’re making an impact and give yourself recognition for all that you do.

Until next time,

Julie Ann