An intervention secured ;-)

I was in the company of a giant today. Now you would not think this person a giant by stature. Perhaps the only thing average about this person is his height…compared to me. He is a giant in his personality, action and heart. I got to have dinner with Rick Antonson, CEO of Tourism Vancouver. I got to first meet Rick during the work we both did during the 2010 Olympic Bid Committee. Ever since then, we have kept in touch but over the last few years, we have become good friends. You know it is a great friendship when you talk for two hours and it does not seem like it has been that long.

Rick is an individual who can sit with you and talk to you about the straight goods but in a way that is comforting. He has talked me through an intervention when I mentioned that I was feeling a bit challenged about walking away from my position. I think he said it best when he said I needed this time for me. It was a realization that yes, it is time for my wife, Sadhna, the baby arriving and my little guy Ishaan; however, he also felt that there is a need for me to use the time for Sam. His insight is valuable and I know I needed to hear this. I am now considering what I would like to do while I have this time off and do some reflective thinking and writing and worrying less about how can I leave.

If you want to know Rick, it is as easy as his book: To Timbuktu for a Haircut: A Journey Through West Africa. Great reviews and something that I will read while I have my time off. People like Rick are treasures and as such, rare in the world of business. A CEO who is approachable and genuine. Look forward to many more chats Rick and thanks for an enjoyable dinner and your company tonight. I know you will hold me to the intervention!