We recently celebrated National Women’s Day (March 8th) and not long after women in Canada were being recognized for their outstanding achievements, leadership and support in the communications industry, here in Ottawa.
As a volunteer for this year’s CWC Awards Gala, I heard many speeches and gained much insight into the world of women in communications. The most memorable speech was by Carol Ring, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, Rogers Communications Inc. Awarded CWC’s 2011 Woman of the Year, Carol relayed a key message I’ll never forget.
When asked how she does it all, she responded “I just don’t do it all.” It’s no Gandhi quote or a Shania Twain women in power lyric, but it struck a chord in the song I’ve been writing since beginning college. I’m not literally writing a song, but instead, living by the “told yous” and “shoulds” that have been emphasized during and post college.
Has someone told you to volunteer? How about taking on more work, so you can quickly learn and grow in your workplace? If you’re volunteering, you must feel on top of the world, because you’re making a difference. If you’re taking on more work at your job, you must be feeling fulfilled and worth a million bucks.
Hard work does pay off, especially lending a helping hand in your community. Even though there will be times you don’t have time to do laundry or you have no choice but to purchase takeout three times a day, you will quickly learn what you like and don’t like, and you’re going to meet great and not so great people, but the learning curve is priceless and so is your time.
As you start or advance in your career, remember to find balance and focus on the important things. Whether it’s a 10k run, a bubble bath or practicing your next Glee performance, don’t lose your passion for what helps you wake up every day. Do what you love, even if it kills you.


