More from each of these wonderful women throughout March.
The theme of 2019 International Women’s Day is #BalanceforBetter. So, we asked our downtown businesswomen what balance means to them, and here’s what they said:
Heidi Sherwood — Sapphire Day Spa and Sattva Spa
This year’s #BalanceforBetter campaign is inspiring. While I am privileged to work in an industry dominated by women, I have at times been isolated and underestimated in our business community. I love that the downtown Victoria business community has become increasingly collaborative. I see businesses wanting to ensure that no one is left behind in their quest to be successful and follow their passion.
Caring is a vital part of my business, so I welcome a shift within our community to be more inclusive, respectful and open-minded.
Read the full blog post on Heidi.
Gayle Robinson — Robinson’s Outdoor Store
When you own/operate your own business, it becomes your life. I’ve worked long hours, but I’ve loved going in to work, I’ve loved being my own boss and I’ve also lived adventure beyond my wildest dreams. A bit of work hard/play hard.
I’ve trekked in Nepal, Peru, Ecuador, Galapagos, Italy, France, Africa, Bhutan and more and two of those treks were with my daughter who is now fourth generation. Life doesn’t get much better than that!
Read the full blog post on Gayle.
Trish Tacoma — Smoking Lily
For Smoking Lily, #BalanceforBetter means listening to our consumers and satisfying their needs within a price point, while still making a profit and reducing the environmental impact.
Personally, #BalanceforBetter means keeping my mind calm. I do this by getting out of the studio for long walks with my buddy Shelby—a rescue dog from Alabama. These walks clear my mind, do my body good, and keep me in a good mood.
Read the full blog post on Trish.
Kyla Dufresne — Foxy Box
Balance is crucial for sustainability in every facet. For me, this means making sure I’m taking care of my mental wellbeing. Working hard requires recovery and when we forget to take it, burnout is sure to happen. Plan your next getaway, and make time for exercise, nature or whatever fuels your soul.
And remember: balance entails stopping and reflecting on how far we’ve come rather than always looking towards ‘what’s next’.
Read the full blog post on Kyla.
Sara Patterson — Migration Boutique
It is very important to have balance in your life, especially in business. I have worked very hard these last 15 years to grow Migration. Over the last couple of years, I have learned that it is imperative to maintain balance as a business owner. I try to meditate, work out, eat well, get out in nature, travel, and even take two days off in a row.
I have found that when I am balanced and happy, my business is balanced and happy, too. Migration is a reflection of me, so the success and survival of my business depend on my personal wellbeing.
Read the full blog post on Sara.
Mavis Degirolamo — Global Village Store
I find balance through a variety of volunteer opportunities and a belief that we all share a responsibility to contribute to making our city an inclusive, warm and welcoming place for each person to live, work and play.
Read the full blog post on Mavis.
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