Category Archives: Business Insights & Lessons Learned
Three decades of knowledge, skills, and experience shared through real-world reflections on leadership, consulting, negotiation, and adaptive strategy. These entries distill boardroom lessons, entrepreneurial grit, and public-private crossovers into useful insights for thoughtful professionals and curious readers alike.
Dating a retired public servant in eastern Ontario is like entering a relationship with a government agency—there’s a system, and it runs on a strict schedule. You may think you’re spontaneous, but you’ll quickly learn that spontaneity has no place in the world of meticulously planned lunches and pickleball tournaments.
First, there’s the lunch calendar, sacred and immutable. Tuesdays are for soup and sandwiches with “the girls,” a rotating cast of retired colleagues with names like Barb, Diane, and Cheryl. Thursdays? Reserved for the seniors’ center “Lunch & Learn,” where they gleefully absorb new knowledge about gardening or the benefits of turmeric.
Sports activities are non-negotiable, too. Golf in the summer, curling in the winter, and pickleball year round. Try suggesting a last minute romantic getaway, and you’ll be met with, “I can’t. It’s our semi-annual shuffleboard tournament!”
Then there are the day trips: wineries in Prince Edward County, fall drives to gawk at leaves, and bus tours to Merrickville for “just a little shopping.” You’ll find yourself in the back seat of a rented minivan, sipping coffee from a thermos, wondering if this is really what dating looks like now.
But don’t worry—there’s a silver lining. These retirees are loyal, organized, and punctual. Just remember: your Friday dinner date is at 5 p.m. sharp, because they need to be home in time for “Jeopardy!” You may not get a whirlwind romance, but you’ll always know exactly where you stand—and what’s for lunch tomorrow.
As a business consultant, my work follows a hybrid model – my home office, to client sites, to hotels and back home again. These days, I rarely accept projects where the client requires that I work full-time out of their offices, as I prefer to focus on my project deliverables, and find hourly coffee breaks, and ad hoc meetings distracting. While I often lead multi-stakeholder initiatives, I much prefer working as part of a small team capable of leveraging today’s collaborative tools and communication apps from the sanctity of my home.
The debate over working from home (WFH) versus traditional office settings has gained momentum over the past few years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic pushed millions into remote work. In Canada, the transition was significant: before the pandemic, about 7% of Canadians worked from home; by April 2020, that number surged to 40%, before settling around 20% in 2023. Research on this shift has produced mixed findings, with some studies showing increased productivity and others highlighting challenges that come with remote work.
Positive reports, like the 2025 study by Fenizia and Kirchmaier, suggest that WFH can lead to a productivity boost—12% in the case of public sector workers. This increase was largely attributed to fewer distractions and a more flexible environment. Stanford’s 2020 study also found a 13% increase in performance among remote workers, citing quieter environments and fewer sick days as contributing factors. Similarly, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics observed a rise in productivity across industries that adopted remote work between 2019 and 2021.
However, not all findings are so glowing. A University of Chicago study found that WFH doesn’t necessarily boost productivity across the board, noting that some jobs still require in-person collaboration. The San Francisco Federal Reserve echoed this sentiment, suggesting that remote work alone isn’t a major factor in driving productivity growth. Some sectors, like tech, have reported stable productivity, but with challenges in communication and collaboration. Studies in Canada have also shown that the ability to work from home varies by industry. Finance and insurance sectors were more adaptable to remote work, while industries like manufacturing and agriculture saw little benefit from the shift.
Despite the varied findings, employee demand for flexibility remains strong. A 2024 survey by the Public Service Alliance of Canada revealed that 81% of Canadians believe remote work benefits employees, with 66% reporting that it boosts organizational productivity. The survey found that most employees felt more focused and productive while working remotely, enjoying the balance it offers. Still, companies are grappling with how to make remote work work for everyone, with some—like Amazon—insisting on a return to the office to foster collaboration.
Ultimately, the future of work in Canada seems to be leaning towards hybrid models, where employees can enjoy the benefits of both office interaction and remote flexibility. The challenge remains to find the right balance, considering industry-specific needs and employee preferences, ensuring that productivity, morale, and collaboration thrive no matter where work is done.
For much of the 20th century, Canadian cities played a direct role in developing and managing affordable housing, often in partnership with provincial and federal governments. Public housing projects, such as Regent Park in Toronto and Benny Farm in Montreal, were built to provide low-income families with stable rental options. However, starting in the 1980s and accelerating through the 1990s, municipalities largely withdrew from housing development as senior governments cut funding and shifted responsibility to the private sector. The federal government ended its national social housing program in 1993, leaving provinces and cities with fewer resources to maintain or expand affordable housing stock. As a result, municipal involvement in housing became limited to zoning regulations, subsidies, and partnerships with private developers, contributing to the affordability crisis seen today.
Canadian cities are beginning to take a more hands-on approach to tackling the housing crisis again, by developing their own low-cost community rental properties on municipally-owned land. With rising rents, stagnant wages, and increased housing demand, affordability has become a pressing concern across the country. Many municipalities, recognizing the limits of relying solely on the private sector, are leveraging public land to create permanently affordable rental options for lower-income residents.
One of the key advantages of this approach is the ability to bypass speculative real estate markets that often drive up costs, and limit long-term affordability. By building on land they already own, cities can keep costs down and ensure that these units remain accessible to those in need, rather than being converted into high-priced rentals or condominiums. Toronto’s Housing Now initiative is a prime example, using city-owned lands to develop mixed-income communities where a significant portion of the units are dedicated to affordable rental housing. These projects are structured to remain affordable over the long term, either through direct municipal ownership or partnerships with non-profit housing providers.
Collaboration with non-profit organizations, housing cooperatives, and community land trusts has become an essential part of this strategy. Many cities recognize that while they can provide the land and initial investment, long-term management and tenant support are often best handled by organizations with experience in affordable housing. Vancouver has been a leader in this area, working with its Community Land Trust to develop and manage affordable units across the city. These partnerships not only ensure that affordability is maintained in perpetuity but also allow for a more community-focused approach to housing, where tenant needs and long-term sustainability are prioritized over profit.
Another emerging trend in municipal-led housing development is the use of modular and prefabricated construction. These methods allow for faster, more cost-effective builds, reducing both construction time and expenses. Ottawa and Edmonton, for example, have invested in modular housing projects to provide rapid solutions for those in immediate need, including people experiencing homelessness. These developments often integrate support services such as mental health care, employment programs, and childcare, recognizing that affordability is about more than just keeping rent low—it’s about providing stability and access to essential resources.
Policy changes at the municipal level are also playing a crucial role in supporting these initiatives. Some cities have adjusted zoning laws to allow for higher-density affordable housing developments or have introduced inclusionary zoning policies that require developers to include affordable units in new projects. Montreal’s 20-20-20 bylaw is an ambitious attempt to balance private development with affordability, mandating that large residential projects include at least 20% social housing, 20% affordable housing, and 20% family-oriented units. While policies like these don’t create city-built rental properties directly, they reinforce the broader municipal commitment to ensuring housing remains within reach for lower-income residents.
Despite the progress being made, challenges remain. Municipal governments often face funding constraints, relying on provincial and federal support to bring these projects to life. Bureaucratic hurdles and community opposition—often fueled by NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) sentiments—can slow down approvals and limit where these developments can be built. However, growing public awareness of the affordability crisis has led to increased political pressure to push projects forward. Programs like the federal Housing Accelerator Fundand the Rapid Housing Initiative are providing much-needed financial backing, allowing cities to expand their efforts and bring more units online.
The future of municipal-led affordable rental housing looks promising. While cities alone can’t solve Canada’s housing crisis, their willingness to take a more active role in development is a step toward ensuring that affordable housing is treated as essential infrastructure rather than a market-driven commodity. If these efforts continue to grow, they could serve as a model for other municipalities seeking sustainable, long-term solutions to the housing affordability challenge.
Canada has long been defined by its vast natural resources, exporting raw commodities like oil, lumber, minerals, and agricultural products to its largest trading partner, the United States. This resource-based economy has created prosperity, but left Canada vulnerable to global market fluctuations and overreliance on one major partner. Imagine, however, a seismic shift where Canada halts raw commodity exports to the U.S. and reorients its economy toward value-added manufacturing, inspired by Germany’s renowned industrial model. Such a transformation could redefine Canada’s role in the global economy, fostering innovation, diversification, and resilience.
The cornerstone of this strategy would be transitioning away from the sale of unprocessed resources. Instead of exporting crude oil, Canada could refine it domestically into high-quality petrochemical products, such as plastics and specialty chemicals. Similarly, rather than selling raw lumber, the country could invest in producing engineered wood products, furniture, and prefabricated housing materials. By processing these materials at home, Canada would capture greater value from its resources, create high-skilled jobs, and reduce economic dependency on the United States.
The shift to manufacturing would require a robust focus on innovation, supported by substantial investment in research and development (R&D). Germany’s manufacturing success is largely driven by its Mittelstand—small and medium-sized enterprises specializing in precision engineering, machinery, and high-quality goods. Canada could emulate this approach by fostering clusters of specialized industries in areas such as green energy technology, robotics, and medical devices. Government incentives, tax breaks, and public-private partnerships could nurture these industries and position Canada as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.
Education and workforce development would play a crucial role in this transformation. Canada’s universities and technical colleges would need to prioritize programs in engineering, technology, and applied sciences. Skilled trades would also need to be elevated in prestige and supported through apprenticeships and certification programs, ensuring a steady supply of talent for emerging industries. Drawing inspiration from Germany’s dual education system, which integrates classroom learning with practical experience, Canada could create a workforce tailored to the demands of a high-tech manufacturing economy.
While transitioning to a manufacturing-based economy, Canada would also strengthen its global trade relationships, reducing reliance on the U.S. market. Trade agreements with the European Union, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) nations, and emerging markets in Africa and Asia would be leveraged to expand exports of Canadian-made goods. This diversification would provide stability in the face of economic or political disruptions in any one region.
Environmental sustainability would underpin this economic transformation. With global demand shifting toward eco-friendly products, Canada’s manufacturing sector could focus on producing green technologies, such as electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure, and energy-efficient building materials. These industries would not only align with Canada’s climate commitments but also tap into growing markets worldwide.
However, such a dramatic shift would not be without challenges. Significant upfront investment, trade tensions with the U.S., and resistance from established industries would need to be managed. Yet the long-term benefits—a diversified, innovative, and resilient economy—would far outweigh the short-term obstacles.
By embracing value-added manufacturing, Canada could break free from its resource-dependent past and secure a prosperous, sustainable future. This shift would allow the country to redefine its economic identity, becoming not just a supplier of raw materials but a global leader in high-quality, innovative goods.
Dwight D. Eisenhower’s economic policies reflected a deep commitment to fiscal conservatism, balanced budgets, and strategic government investment. Unlike his predecessors, who expanded federal programs through deficit spending, Eisenhower believed that long-term economic stability required careful financial management. His presidency oversaw a period of sustained growth, low inflation, and rising living standards, largely because he resisted both reckless tax cuts and unchecked federal expansion. Instead, he sought to create an economic environment where businesses could flourish under stable conditions while ensuring that the government maintained the resources necessary for national development.
A staunch advocate of balanced budgets, Eisenhower saw unchecked deficits as a threat to economic security. His administration achieved budget surpluses in three of his eight years, a remarkable feat given the pressures of Cold War military spending. While he faced pressure from both Congress and business leaders to reduce tax rates, he maintained high marginal taxes, including a top personal income tax rate of 91 percent. Corporate tax rates also remained high, but rather than focusing on cutting taxes as a means of stimulating growth, Eisenhower prioritized stability and investment. He understood that sustainable prosperity was best achieved not through short-term corporate windfalls but through a well-maintained economic infrastructure that supported long-term business expansion and job creation.
Perhaps his most lasting economic achievement was the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, which launched the Interstate Highway System. Although justified as a national security measure, this massive infrastructure project became a cornerstone of economic growth, stimulating the construction industry, creating millions of jobs, and expanding the reach of commerce across the country. It also fueled the suburban boom of the postwar era, enabling businesses to reach new consumers and accelerating the rise of the American middle class. Unlike later presidents who pursued economic stimulus through tax cuts alone, Eisenhower demonstrated that government investment in national infrastructure could pay long-term dividends for both businesses and workers.
While defense spending remained a major priority, Eisenhower was careful to keep military expenditures in check, warning in his farewell address against the growing influence of the “military-industrial complex.” Though he believed in a strong national defense, he avoided costly foreign entanglements and sought to balance security needs with economic sustainability. His administration also made key investments in science and education, helping lay the groundwork for future technological advancements that would drive economic growth.
Eisenhower’s approach to economic management stands in stark contrast to that of Donald Trump, whose administration pursued aggressive tax cuts, particularly for corporations and the wealthy, under the belief that reducing government revenue would spur business expansion. While Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provided a temporary boost to growth, it also contributed to record-high deficits without the kind of long-term investment that characterized Eisenhower’s policies. Instead of cutting corporate taxes to unsustainable levels, Eisenhower used tax revenue to build infrastructure, strengthen education, and fund key government programs that benefited both businesses and workers. Trump, and indeed modern policymakers, could take a lesson from Eisenhower’s 1950s playbook by recognizing that real economic strength comes not just from slashing tax rates but from creating the foundational structures that allow the economy to thrive for generations.
As the Liberal Party of Canada prepares to choose its next leader, the race between Mark Carney, Chrystia Freeland, Karina Gould and three other candidates is shaping the party’s vision for the next federal election. While each candidate has put forward their own platform, the key to electoral success lies in synthesizing their strongest ideas into a compelling, broadly appealing agenda. A winning platform must balance economic growth, social progress, and national security while addressing the affordability crisis, and the looming challenges of global instability.
On the economic front, affordability remains the defining issue for Canadians. To address this, the Liberals should commit to a one-year reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 5% to 4%, an idea championed by Gould, to stimulate consumer spending in a period of high living costs. At the same time, Freeland’s proposal to eliminate GST on new homes valued up to $1.5 million for first-time buyers would provide tangible relief in the housing market. Additionally, a corporate tax increase from 15% to 17% on profits exceeding $500 million, as suggested by Gould, would ensure large corporations contribute fairly to public finances. This combination of targeted tax relief for individuals and increased corporate contributions would position the Liberals as champions of middle-class economic stability.
On climate policy, the party must address growing frustration with the carbon tax. Rather than scrapping it entirely, Carney’s proposal to replace the consumer carbon tax with a system of incentives that reward environmentally responsible behavior—while maintaining a tax on large industrial emitters—offers a pragmatic way forward. This would ease financial pressure on households while keeping industry accountable. At the same time, Freeland’s plan to expand tax incentives for workers in the critical minerals sector would ensure Canada remains a leader in the transition to a green economy. Together, these policies would balance economic growth with meaningful environmental action.
In matters of national security and foreign policy, Canada must be prepared for an increasingly volatile world. Both Carney and Freeland have called for raising defense spending to NATO’s 2% GDP target by 2027. This commitment would not only modernize the military, but also improve troop retention through better wages and resources. Meanwhile, Freeland has put forward the most aggressive response to potential U.S. trade barriers under a second Trump presidency. Her strategy—imposing retaliatory tariffs on key U.S. exports, blocking American companies from Canadian federal contracts, and leading international coalitions against protectionism—signals a tough, pragmatic approach to safeguarding Canada’s economic interests.
Domestically, the Liberals must continue to build on their social policy successes. Freeland’s plan to create 100,000 additional $10-a-day childcare spots by mandating daycare facilities in new or renovated federal buildings is a smart, low-cost way to expand access to affordable childcare. Additionally, Gould’s push for employment insurance (EI) reform—expanding eligibility and modernizing the system—would provide crucial support to workers navigating an unpredictable job market. And while universal basic income (UBI) remains a politically ambitious goal, Gould’s advocacy for it signals a progressive vision that could shape the party’s long-term agenda.
Finally, government reform should not be overlooked. Freeland’s call to cap the federal Cabinet at 20 ministers would be a symbolic yet impactful step toward a leaner, more efficient government, countering criticisms of bloated bureaucracy. Coupled with her experience in crisis management and economic stewardship, this signals a commitment to governing with discipline and focus.
By integrating these proposals into a single, unified platform, the Liberals can present themselves as the party of pragmatic leadership in uncertain times. With economic relief for middle-class Canadians, a recalibrated climate strategy, a strong stance on national security, and forward-thinking social policies, they would be well-positioned to win the next general election. The challenge now is for the eventual leader to stitch these ideas into a coherent narrative—one that reassures anxious voters while offering a vision for Canada’s future that is both ambitious and attainable.
The 60th anniversary of the Canadian flag in 2025 comes at a time of heightened national reflection, as the country faces economic pressures from the United States under a second Trump administration. With new tariffs, trade restrictions, and economic policies designed to favor American industries at Canada’s expense, the Maple Leaf takes on renewed significance as a symbol of resilience and sovereignty. Just as the flag was introduced in 1965 to assert a distinct Canadian identity separate from Britain, its anniversary in 2025 serves as a reminder of the nation’s ability to stand firm in the face of external challenges. On this Flag Day, Canadians may not only celebrate their emblem, but also reaffirm their commitment to economic independence and unity in the face of shifting geopolitical realities.
As our understanding of love and relationships evolves, so too does the way we define intimacy. A concept that’s starting to catch the attention of both relationship experts and storytellers alike is symbiosexuality. While it may not yet be a household term, it offers a new way of thinking about emotional connection, rooted in the biological principle of symbiosis—the mutually beneficial relationship between different organisms. In the realm of love, symbiosexuality suggests that relationships should be rooted in harmony, interdependence, and growth, not just between people, but also between humans and nature, and even between humans and technology.
In today’s dating world, where people are increasingly searching for more meaningful, emotionally fulfilling connections, symbiosexuality offers a model that reflects these desires. Gone are the days of relationships based solely on attraction or shared interests. Today’s singles are looking for something deeper: a connection that nurtures both partners, encouraging emotional and intellectual growth. Symbiosexuality embraces this shift, proposing that love can thrive when both individuals contribute to each other’s flourishing. It’s not about one person being “the other half” of the other, but about both people being whole in their own right, yet stronger together.
Technology has also played a significant role in changing how we form relationships, expanding the boundaries of intimacy far beyond physical presence. The rise of virtual dating, AI companions, and even relationships formed in virtual reality all reflect the growing need for connection that goes beyond the tangible. In this new world of digital love, symbiosexuality takes on a unique form—relationships with AI or virtual partners that are based on mutual emotional fulfillment and support. These connections might seem like something out of science fiction, but they’re becoming more real as technology advances. In some ways, they embody the symbiosexual model by providing companionship that nurtures the emotional well-being of the person, even when it’s not with another human.
At the same time, there’s a growing movement toward non-traditional relationship structures, like polyamory, where people cultivate multiple relationships that meet different needs. This, too, aligns with the idea of symbiosexuality—relationships that form a web of interdependence rather than a single, dependent bond. In polyamory, partners take on different roles, offering everything from emotional support to intellectual stimulation, and in doing so, they create a balanced, symbiotic ecosystem of connection.
Another fascinating aspect of symbiosexuality is how it dovetails with the eco-sexuality movement, which celebrates intimacy with nature itself. As environmental concerns become more urgent, many people are seeking to reconnect with the Earth in a deeply personal way. This trend goes beyond the idea of environmental activism; it’s about seeing nature as a partner, one that sustains and nurtures us. Whether it’s through ritual, activism, or simple acts of mindfulness, eco-sexuality offers a way to deepen our relationship with the planet—a form of love that acknowledges the symbiotic relationship between humanity and the Earth.
The idea of symbiosexuality isn’t just shaping how we date—it’s also influencing how we tell stories. Literature, especially science fiction, is filled with depictions of relationships that challenge traditional ideas of intimacy. In Dune, for example, the relationship between humans and the sandworms is symbiotic—both species rely on each other for survival. Similarly, Octavia Butler’s Xenogenesis Trilogy takes the concept of symbiosis even further, exploring how humans might merge with aliens to create a new, interdependent species. These narratives present love not as something confined to humans but as something that can span species, challenging our conventional boundaries of what intimacy means.
In modern fiction, the relationship between humans and AI also provides fertile ground for exploring symbiosexuality. Kazuo Ishiguro’s Klara and the Sun and Ian McEwan’s Machines Like Me both examine the emotional depth of human-AI relationships. In these stories, AI characters offer a form of emotional companionship that mirrors the symbiotic dynamics of human relationships. This opens up new ways of thinking about intimacy—what if the emotional support we need can come not from another human, but from a machine? These books raise fascinating questions about what it means to connect on a deep, emotional level and whether true symbiosis is possible between human and artificial beings.
But symbiosexuality isn’t confined to speculative fiction; it also appears in the real world. Novels like The Overstory by Richard Powers and Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood examine the relationships humans have with the natural world, urging us to rethink our connection with the Earth. These stories echo the central message of symbiosexuality—that love and intimacy can transcend human relationships, extending into our interactions with the environment. In these works, the survival of both humanity and nature depends on a mutually supportive, symbiotic relationship.
As we look to the future of relationships, symbiosexuality provides a fresh perspective on love. It’s no longer just about finding someone who completes us; it’s about forging relationships that allow both partners to grow, thrive, and evolve together. Whether it’s in human relationships, connections with the natural world, or bonds with technology, symbiosexuality challenges us to think beyond traditional ideas of love and intimacy. It asks us to consider how we can build relationships that are not only fulfilling on an individual level but that also contribute to the collective well-being of all involved.
In a world where connection is more important than ever, symbiosexuality offers a model for love that is as dynamic and interconnected as the world we live in. The question now is, as we look ahead, how will we embrace this new vision of intimacy? Will we be open to forging bonds that are less about ownership and more about mutual growth, balance, and care? That’s the essence of symbiosexuality, and it may just be the future of love.
As you reflect on your own relationships, consider this: Who or what in your life helps you grow, and how can you reciprocate that care? In a world that’s constantly evolving, perhaps the key to love lies not in searching for perfection, but in creating a mutually supportive, flourishing connection.
Update When discussing this piece with a partner, apart from it being too long, they felt that the focus on a sexual connection in the term might be limiting. Researchers have a history of mixing up labels for physical sexuality with intimacy and/or romance, and so the term “symbioromantic” or “symbiointimate” may be a more fitting descriptor than “symbiosexual” for relationships where intimacy is deeply rooted in emotional, intellectual, or spiritual connections rather than physical acts. While “symbiosexual” implies a focus on sexual interaction, “symbioromantic” emphasizes the shared emotional growth and interdependence that defines the bond. Romantic intimacy often transcends physicality, centering instead on mutual understanding, care, and the blending of lives in a way that nurtures both individuals. By shifting the focus to the romantic aspect, “symbioromantic” acknowledges that fulfilling, profound connections can thrive even in the absence of physical intimacy, making it a more inclusive term.
I try to live my life grounded in the teachings of Taoism and Zen Buddhism, seeking balance, simplicity, and a deep connection to the present moment. These philosophies shape my approach to the world, helping me navigate life’s uncertainties with grace and mindfulness.
One of the central teachings of Taoism that I try to embody is “wu wei,” which means “non-doing” or “effortless action.” This doesn’t mean passivity, but rather allowing things to happen naturally without forcing or resisting them – or as I like to say “going with the flow”. Lao Tzu wrote in the Tao Te Ching, “The wise man is one who knows what he does not know”. This encourages humility and acceptance, which help me understand that I cannot control everything. For example, when faced with difficult situations—whether it’s a work-related challenge or a personal issue—I remind myself not to overthink or act in haste. By allowing things to unfold and responding with calm, I find that solutions often present themselves more clearly than if I had rushed in with anxiety.
Zen Buddhism, too, plays a crucial role in how I live. One of its core principles is mindfulness, or being fully present in each moment. This has become a daily practice for me, whether I am meditating, walking, or even doing mundane tasks like washing dishes. Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh once said, “When you wash the dishes, wash the dishes,” meaning that in every activity, there’s an opportunity to be mindful. This philosophy encourages me to engage with whatever I am doing, without distraction or impatience. By doing so, I am able to experience even the smallest moments with clarity and peace, rather than letting my mind drift toward the past or future.
Another key lesson from Zen is the idea of “beginner’s mind“. As Shunryu Suzuki explained, “In the beginner’s mind, there are many possibilities; in the expert’s mind, there are few.” I approach life with curiosity and openness, shedding preconceived notions or rigid expectations. For instance, when starting a new project or learning a new skill, I remind myself not to cling to past experiences or compare myself to others. This mindset helps me see each moment as fresh, filled with new opportunities and potential, rather than clouded by fear of failure or attachment to specific outcomes.
These teachings also extend to how I maintain relationships. Taoism teaches harmony with nature and others, while Zen promotes compassion. I strive to let go of judgments—whether of myself or those around me—and instead respond with understanding. As Lao Tzu said, “He who is contented is rich.” By cultivating contentment within, I don’t feel the need to compete with or compare myself to others. I practice empathy, knowing that everyone is walking their own path.
When challenges arise, these philosophies help me embrace change rather than resist it. Both Taoism and Zen emphasize the impermanence of life; everything is in constant flux. This understanding allows me to accept difficult times as part of a larger cycle, trusting that they too will pass.
In living my life through the lens of Taoism and Zen, I find balance, peace, and clarity. By accepting the flow of life and being present in each moment, I cultivate a deeper connection with myself and the world around me. Through simplicity and mindful action, I move through life with a sense of ease and fulfillment.
“The Master in the art of living makes little distinction between his work and his play, his labour and his leisure, his mind and his body, his education and his recreation, his love and his religion. He hardly knows which is which. He simply pursues his vision of excellence in whatever he does, leaving others to decide whether he is working or playing. To him he is always doing both.” – Zen Buddhist Text
Ah, online dating—a wondrous digital land where love blossoms, hearts are broken, and oh no, not another dead fish photo. If you’re dipping your toe into the wild waters of matchmaking apps, let me help you avoid the missteps that send people running for the hills (or just swiping left faster than you can say, “partner in crime”).
Your Kids: The Little Darlings Who Don’t Belong in Your Profile Look, I’m sure your children and dare I say grandchildren are angels (or at least occasionally). But posting their photos in your dating profile—especially as your main picture—can make a potential match think, “Am I auditioning to be a romantic partner or a nanny?” Keep your kids out of the spotlight for now. This is your moment to shine, not theirs.
And while we’re on the topic: if your bio starts with “My kids are the loves of my life,” it’s sweet… but also a bit of a mood-killer. Potential partners might wonder, “Where does that leave room for me?” Save the love declarations for the people swiping right on you.
Stop Copy-Pasting “Hey Beautiful” When someone receives “Hey beautiful” for the 47th time that day, it doesn’t feel special—it feels like a generic coupon for romance. Try something more creative, like referencing their profile. Trust me, “Hey, I see you’re into paddleboarding—do you have a shark-escape plan?” will get you further than bland flattery.
Let Go of the Clichés Speaking of originality, if your bio includes “looking for a partner in crime,” you may as well add, “and I moonlight as a walking, talking dating stereotype.” Everyone’s seen it. Everyone’s rolled their eyes. Be specific about what you want—something that feels uniquely you.
Negativity Is a Buzzkill “Drama-free.” “No toxic baggage.” “Sick of games.” Okay, we get it, you’ve been hurt—join the club! But plastering this all over your profile reads like a giant neon sign flashing BITTER, PARTY OF ONE. Instead, focus on the positives: what you’re looking forward to, what you value, what excites you about the idea of meeting someone new. Optimism is sexy.
“A Nice Lady” (or Gentleman) Requesting a “nice lady” makes you sound like you’re ordering at a diner: “I’ll have the nice lady with a side of vanilla, please.” Instead, describe the qualities that light you up—compassion, humor, confidence, whatever it is. Trust me, nobody’s pining to be described as “nice.”
Let’s Talk About That Fish Unless you’re starring in a reality show called The Bait Whisperer, it’s time to put the bass down and back away slowly. Dead fish photos are a universal “ugh” moment. If you love fishing, mention it in your profile, but swap the fish for a photo of you looking happy and rugged by a lake.
“I’m an Open Book, Just Ask” This one screams lazy. A dating profile is your chance to give people a taste of who you are—not to set them up for a pop quiz. Share a few fun tidbits about yourself. Think of it like leaving breadcrumbs, not a scavenger hunt.
Your Pets Are Cute, But… We all love a good dog or cat pic (seriously, who doesn’t?), but if your entire bio reads like an ode to Fluffy, potential matches may think they’re competing with your fur baby. Keep it balanced—show you have room in your life for both your beloved pets and a partner.
Your Photos Need to Spark Joy If your profile photos include frowning selfies, dimly lit shots, or your ex cropped out of the frame (we can tell, by the way), it’s time for a refresh. Aim for friendly, well-lit, and authentic photos that make people want to grab a coffee with you—or at least swipe right.
Friends or Lovers? Pick a Lane “Looking for friendship first” is like saying, “I’m browsing, not buying.” It’s fine to want to take things slow, but if romance is on the table, don’t bury it under disclaimers. Be clear about your intentions.
Avoid the Pitfalls, Embrace the Possibilities Your online dating profile should feel like a teaser trailer to a movie people actually want to see. Be authentic, positive, and approachable. And above all, remember: the goal is to attract the right match, not scare them off with fish, frowns, or fatal clichés. Now, go forth and swipe wisely!
The Rowanwood Chronicles 