From Down Under to True North

Welcome to The Brighter Side of Everything.

This newsletter serves a simple purpose → To help you build optimism, resilience and a solution-focused perspective.

Each week, I’ll share actionable insights that not only brighten your day but position you to be a leader within your own life and seize life’s opportunities.

Read time: 12-15 minutes.

• From Down Under to True North – Building a life in Canada.

• Bright Reads - Quick links to fun or insightful articles.

• Sebastião Salgado - Turning despair into growth (literally).

• Elevated Viewing - The Bear.

• A Bright Idea to Consider - Every good thing comes with a trade-off.

• A Previous Post - Lead with humility and humour, not fear and ridicule.

• Positively Hilarious - Smile like you mean it.

• Daily Gratitude Journal - Transform your daily routine through reflection.

Hello, Brighter Side readers! ☀️

This week’s edition feels extra special.

Why?

It’s been one whole year since I nervously hit “send” on my very first email, reaching just 87 subscribers.

Back then, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I hoped to create a little space for inspiration, connection and optimism.

Whether you’re a fresh face here or one of the amazing folks who’ve been with me since the very beginning, I want to say a heartfelt thank you.

Your support, your messages and simply knowing you’re reading along have meant more than words can say.

Together, we’ve shared stories that inspire, moments that matter and reminders that even the smallest things can make a big difference.

Here’s to another great year ahead.

Filled with more inspiring stories, everyday magic and those big and small achievements that make life truly special.

I’m so glad you’re here.

See you on the Brighter Side,

Chris

P.S. Please feel free to send me feedback on how I can improve. I respond to every email.

Pique Potential is a personal and professional consultancy born out of love and dedication to helping people be their best.

We are a team of professionals, each celebrating our own set of skills and talents, coming together to help people grow and succeed.

Collectively, we share the belief that when both the head and heart are activated, life is more enjoyable and successful.

Contact us today.

July 1st was Canada Day 🇨🇦

As the nation celebrated its 158th birthday with fireworks and cheers, and the sky exploded in red and white, I found myself reflecting on my own Canadian adventure.

And why, after all these years, it still feels like magic.

Nearly twenty years ago, I set foot here for the first time and honestly, nothing has been the same since.

What started as a one-year “snowboarding trip” in 2007 turned into 17 years of building a life, a career and a family in the True North.

My wife and I landed in Vancouver on New Year’s Eve, buzzing with excitement and a few nerves.

That first drive up the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler, mountains rising out of the mist, ocean sparkling below, felt like something out of a dream.

At a friend’s wedding halfway up Blackcomb Mountain, where guests skied down after the ceremony, I realised Canada was more than just a destination.

It was a place where adventure and community go hand in hand.

My kind of place.

People often ask what it was like to move from Australia to Canada.

Things like if I experienced culture shock, or if I ever felt out of place.

Honestly?

Aside from swapping beaches for snow boots, it’s surprising how much these two countries have in common.

Sure, the weather’s at opposite extremes, but so much of daily life feels familiar.

And I put that down to one thing, the people.

Both Australia and Canada are modern, progressive countries.

Big, beautiful places with relatively small populations spread across vast, wild landscapes.

Interestingly, about 85% of Australians live within 50 kilometres of the coast, while roughly 90% of Canadians live within 160 kms of the US border.

We’re both former British colonies, now proud democracies with a parliamentary system, a constitutional monarchy and a healthy respect for a good debate.

Our economies lean on natural resources and we both love a good barbecue.

Though I’ll admit, Canadians have taught me a thing or two about grilling in the snow.

There’s a shared multicultural spirit, too.

Walk through Toronto or Sydney and you’ll hear dozens of languages and see communities from every corner of the world.

Both countries have made diversity a strength, welcoming newcomers and learning from each other’s cultures.

And let’s not forget our histories.

Both Australia and Canada are still reckoning with the past, especially when it comes to First Nations and Indigenous peoples.

We’re not perfect, but there’s a real commitment in both countries to listening, learning and making things right.

Aussies and Canadians also have a similar outlook: laid-back, friendly and always ready to lend a hand.

We might swap “mate” for “bud,” but the spirit’s the same.

Maybe that’s why, despite the distance and the climate, Canada felt like home so quickly.

Embracing Seasons, Family and Nature

If there’s one thing Canada has taught me, it’s to appreciate the changing seasons.

And the changes they bring to life.

Growing up in Australia, it was mostly sun and surf, but I also lived in places that felt colder than any time I’ve spent in Canada.

Here, every season has its own magic.

The first fresh snowfall in Toronto, turning the city into a winter wonderland overnight, is something special.

I’ve also come to love the early darkness of winter, how it draws the family closer and makes every cup of hot chocolate feel like a warm hug.

These short days lead to summer days that feel like they never end, with the sun going down close to 10pm at night.

And then there’s fall.

The vibrant colours, crisp air and crunch of leaves underfoot.

Moments I’ll always treasure.

Our family has embraced the outdoors, wholeheartedly.

From epic snowstorms in Toronto to summer camping trips in Algonquin Provincial Park, these experiences have become part of who we are.

Ten days exploring Algonquin and Sandbanks with my wife and kids stands out as one of our favourite adventures, canoeing misty lakes, spotting animals at dawn and roasting marshmallows under starry skies.

Algonquin is truly one of Canada’s jewels, a wild, beautiful reminder of the country’s soul and a place everyone should visit at least once.

City Life, Music and Meaningful Connections

Since 2016, Toronto has been our home base.

It’s a city that never fails to surprise me.

I love its bustling energy, the way the CN Tower helps you find your way and how easy it is to get around (unless you choose to drive 😄).

I’ve written from parks in the eastern suburbs, watched the city transform during snowstorms and been to countless festivals and events.

Live music has been a huge part of our experience, seeing so many of our favourite artists in Toronto, as literally everyone passes through here at some stage.

But beyond the sights and sounds, it’s the people who make Canada home.

Over the years, we’ve been lucky to meet countless incredible Canadians.

Our close network of friends here means the world to us, especially given our families live on the other side of the world.

These friends have become our chosen family, sharing holidays, adventures and everyday moments that have shaped our lives.

I’ve also had the privilege of learning from and working alongside inspiring leaders.

People who have challenged me and helped me grow both personally and professionally.

I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to work with such passionate, talented individuals.

At the end of the day, the world knows Canada is easy on the eye.

But it’s the warmth, generosity and strength of its people that make you want to stay.

Strong, Kind and Proud

You’ve probably heard Canadians described as “nice.”

Sure, that’s true.

But it doesn’t tell the whole story.

Canadians are both strong AND kind.

They don’t just smile politely, they stand up for what’s right and don’t back down when it matters.

Over the last six months, Canada has faced external pressures, rumours of annexation, tariffs, even talk about becoming America’s “51st state.”

Watching Canadians unite and stand firm for their values has been nothing short of inspiring.

It’s in these moments that the unique spirit of Canada shines brightest: a spirit defined by resilience, compassion and a deep sense of community.

I’m continually reminded just how proud I am to call Canada home.

One thing I love most about Canada is its diversity.

You can experience countless cultures from across the globe within a single day.

Festivals like Toronto’s Caribana celebrate Caribbean culture with vibrant music and dance, while Vancouver’s Chinese New Year parades bring communities together in joyous celebration.

This multiculturalism is a source of strength, not division.

And it’s not just big cities.

Across the country, there’s a genuine sense of community.

Canadians look out for each other, whether it’s helping a neighbour shovel snow or coming together for local events.

That sense of belonging is something special.

Canada’s natural beauty is unmatched.

I still get goosebumps thinking about visiting Great Bear Lodge on Vancouver Island or hiking in Banff’s majestic Rocky Mountains.

The Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky are like nothing else on earth.

These experiences do more than thrill you, they change you.

They push you to explore new parts of yourself and remind you how small we are in the grand scheme of things.

What’s even more impressive is Canada’s commitment to protecting this natural heritage.

National parks, conservation efforts and a deep respect for the environment are part of the country’s identity.

Five Lessons Canada Has Taught Me

After two decades here, I’ve realised Canada hasn’t just changed my address, it’s changed my outlook.

Here are five lessons Canada has given me that I’ll carry for life:

1. Embrace the Seasons (and Life’s Changes)
Canada’s dramatic seasons taught me to stop resisting change and start appreciating it. The first snowfall, the endless summer evenings and those fiery autumn leaves. They all remind me that every season, in weather and in life, brings its own magic.

2. Diversity Isn’t Just a Buzzword - it’s a Way of Life
Canada’s multicultural spirit isn’t just something you read about, it’s something you live every day. I’ve learned how much richer life is when you celebrate differences and invite everyone to the table.

3. Kindness Goes a Long Way
From neighbours shovelling driveways to strangers holding doors, Canadians have shown me that small acts of kindness can make a big difference. It’s a lesson I pay forward, every chance I get.

4. Stand Up for What Matters, Even When It’s Hard
Watching Canadians unite and stand firm for their values, especially in tough times, has inspired me to be braver, to speak up and to stand with others for what’s right.

5. Nature Isn’t Just a Backdrop, it’s Medicine for your Soul
Whether it’s paddling through misty lakes or hiking in the mountains, Canada’s wildest places have taught me to slow down, reconnect and find peace in the chaos.

My Takeaway

No country is perfect.

And Canada has had its share of missteps, both historic and ongoing.

But what I admire most is the country’s integrity in owning those mistakes and striving to make positive change.

That willingness to listen, learn and grow is something I deeply respect.

As an Australian, I’ve always been proud of where I come from.

But Canada has given me and my family something equally precious, a home filled with opportunity, kindness and hope.

Holding Canadian citizenship alongside my Australian roots feels like having the best of both worlds.

Almost like a cheat code.

I’m endlessly grateful to call these two countries home.

Knowing my kids will grow up as Canadians warms my heart.

I want them to inherit the values I see every day here: strength, kindness, fairness and a willingness to stand up for what’s right.

Canada is a place where strength and kindness aren’t opposites.

They’re two sides of the same coin.

It’s where communities come together, where differences are celebrated and where every day offers a new chance to build something better.

For me and my family, this isn’t just another country.

It’s our home.

And honestly, I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Seventeen years ago, we swapped “G’day” for “Eh” and discovered that home isn’t just a place.

It’s a feeling.

We never planned to stay in Canada longer than a year, but the country had other ideas.

And honestly, I’m glad it did.

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The year was 1994.

Sebastião Salgado, one of the world’s most acclaimed photojournalists, returned to Brazil after witnessing the unimaginable horrors of the Rwandan genocide.

He was exhausted, traumatised and searching for solace.

Searching for a place where the world still made sense.

But when he arrived in Minas Gerais, the landscape of his childhood dreams was gone.

The once-vibrant rainforest had withered into a dusty, barren wasteland.

The birds were silent.

The rivers, dry.

“The land was as sick as I was,” Sebastião later recalled.

Only a fraction of the forest (about 0.5%) remained.

The devastation was complete, inside and out.

Why Sebastião’s Story Matters

Salgado is known for his hauntingly beautiful photographs of human struggle and resilience (see below for an example of his work).

But the story that followed his return to Brazil is perhaps his most inspiring.

A journey from despair to renewal.

Not just for himself, but for the land and its creatures.

His story matters because it reminds us that healing is possible.

Even after the deepest wounds.

It was Sebastião’s wife, Lélia Deluiz Wanick Salgado, who first saw a path forward.

What if they tried to bring the forest back?

It sounded impossible, almost naive.

But together, they decided to try.

They began with a handful of native seedlings, planting them in the dry, depleted soil.

The work was slow and grueling, often feeling futile against the scale of destruction.

Friends and neighbors doubted them.

Experts warned it couldn’t be done.

But the couple pressed on.

Year after year, fueled by stubborn hope and the memory of what once was.

A Moment of Doubt and Triumph

There were days when the setbacks felt overwhelming.

In the early years, a severe drought struck.

Many of the young trees withered under the relentless sun.

Sebastião remembers walking the land, heart heavy, wondering if all their effort would be washed away by nature’s indifference.

But then, after a rare rainfall, he and Lélia noticed something remarkable.

Even where the ground seemed lifeless, tiny green shoots had survived, pushing up through the dust.

That day, hope returned.

They realised that resilience (like the forest itself) often hides just beneath the surface, waiting for the chance to grow.

Over two decades, Sebastião and Lélia led the planting of 2.7 million trees.

Read that again, 2.7 million trees.

The land responded.

Green shoots pushed through the dust.

Birds returned.

Streams began to trickle again.

As I was reading about Sebastião’s journey, I was struck by how closely his story mirrors the land’s.

Both were stripped bare by tragedy.

Both seemed beyond repair.

And yet, with patience and care, both found new life.

It’s a wonderful reminder that healing, whether personal or environmental, rarely happens overnight.

Sometimes, it’s just about showing up.

Day after day, and believing in a future you can’t yet fully see.

Facing Doubt and Finding Renewal

Of course, there were setbacks.

Some trees didn’t survive.

Funding ran low.

Critics questioned whether the effort was worth it.

But Sebastião and Lélia kept going, learning as they went, adapting to each new challenge.

Their persistence paid off.

Today, their reforested land, now the Instituto Terra, covers 1,500 acres and is home to:

• 293 plant species

• 172 bird species

• 33 animal species (some once on the brink of extinction)

What began as an act of hope became a living testament to resilience and renewal.

Wow.

Lessons from Sebastião:

Salgado’s story isn’t just about environmental restoration.

It’s about:

• Optimism: Believing in the possibility of change, even when the odds seem overwhelming.

• Resilience: Showing up, again and again, even when progress is slow and setbacks are certain.

• Partnership: The power of working together, Sebastião and Lélia’s shared vision made the impossible possible.

The Ripple Effect

The impact of the Salgados’ work has stretched far beyond their land.

Instituto Terra has become a model for ecological restoration worldwide, teaching others how to heal damaged landscapes and restore biodiversity.

Their story has inspired countless people to look at their own “barren ground”.

Whether that’s a patch of earth, a broken system, or a wounded heart, and believe that renewal is possible.

Sebastião’s experience with healing the land also transformed his art.

His later photographic project, “Genesis,” is a celebration of the beauty and resilience of the natural world.

A visual tribute to the hope that can emerge even after devastation.

My Takeaway

Sebastião’s journey shows that even the most barren landscape can bloom again.

With patience, hope, and action, that is.

His story is proof that real change starts with a single, determined step.

Even when the odds seem overwhelming.

It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of big problems.

Whether it’s a damaged environment, a struggling community, or a personal setback.

But Sebastião and Lélia remind us that transformation is possible when we commit to steady, purposeful work.

Their legacy is not just the millions of trees they planted, but the ripple effect of courage and optimism they’ve sparked around the world.

So, as you reflect on their story, consider this:

What small step can you take to begin the work of renewal in your own life or community?

Where is there a patch of “barren ground” waiting for your care and attention?

And what might grow if you choose to get your hands dirty and start today?

Sometimes, the most profound change begins with a single seed.

Want to learn more about Sebastião’s story, check out this short video:

Ever find yourself glued to a show that feels less like escapism and more like an adrenaline shot to your everyday routine?

That’s exactly what happened to me one evening after the kids were finally asleep.

My wife and I were looking for something new to watch and after hearing all the buzz, we decided to give “The Bear” a try.

We were instantly hooked.

What started as a casual scroll for background TV quickly turned into a full-blown binge.

Both of us wide-eyed and invested from the very first episode.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

“The Bear” isn’t just another kitchen drama.

It’s a raw, unfiltered look at what happens when passion meets pressure.

And family history simmers just beneath the surface.

The writing is sharp, the performances electric (Jeremy Allen White, take a bow) and the stakes feel real.

Whether it’s a botched order or a brother’s legacy on the line.

The camera work and editing keep you on edge, making even the smallest moments feel monumental.

If you love stories that balance humour, heartbreak and hope in equal measure, this is your next binge.

What Makes It Stand Out

What really floored me was the show’s pacing and authenticity.

There’s one episode, no spoilers, but if you’ve seen it, you know.

It plays out almost in real time, capturing the frantic ballet of a lunch rush.

The camera never blinks, and it felt like neither did I.

The dialogue snaps and overlaps, the kitchen feels lived-in and the cast brings layers of humour and tension.

It’s not just about food.

It’s about the people who risk everything for it.

And just when you think the chaos will swallow everyone whole, the show sneaks in a quiet moment or a perfectly timed joke that reminds you why you’re cheering for every character.

Lessons from ‘The Bear’.

Watching “The Bear” offered more than just entertainment.

It sparked some real reflections I think you’ll appreciate:

• Resilience under pressure: The characters show how to keep going even when everything feels overwhelming.

• The power of teamwork: Success often depends on how well people come together in chaos.

• Embracing imperfection: Sometimes, it’s the messy moments that lead to growth and connection.

• Finding pride in small wins: Not every victory is huge, but every step forward counts.

• Showing up for others: Loyalty and support can be the difference between falling apart and pulling through.

These aren’t just lessons for the kitchen.

They’re for anyone navigating life’s daily grind.

My Takeaway

Here’s where I’ll let my honesty shine.

While I loved the earlier seasons for their rawness and scrappy energy.

The most recent season felt noticeably more stuffy and refined.

Both in the restaurant and the show itself.

Maybe that’s the point.

Reflecting the evolution of the characters and their ambitions.

But I found myself missing some of the original grit and chaos that made me fall in love with the show in the first place.

Still, “The Bear” lingers long after the credits roll, nudging you to appreciate the messy, beautiful process behind every finished plate (literal or metaphorical).

I’d recommend it for anyone craving a series that’s as heartfelt as it is high-octane.

Bonus: you’ll never look at a sandwich the same way again.

Have you seen “The Bear,” or do you have another show that captures the chaos (and charm) of real life?

Got a recommendation?

Please share; I'm always keen for great suggestions.

The Lesson

Have you ever noticed that every big, exciting decision comes with a little bit of mess?

The person you fall in love with is also the person you’ll argue with.

The house you dream of owning will eventually need repairs.

That “perfect” job you land will still bring its own share of stress.

Here’s the bright idea for this week:

Everything wonderful in life comes with its own set of sacrifices.

Whatever makes us feel good will, at some point, also make us feel bad.

It’s not a flaw.

It’s just how life works.

Go Deeper

It’s easy to imagine that happiness is just around the corner, waiting for us in the next relationship, the next house, or the next job.

But the truth is, everything worth having comes with its own challenges.

Think about planning a wedding.

There’s so much excitement, but also stress, disagreements and unexpected hiccups.

The joy and the mess go hand in hand.

Relationships bring love and laughter, but also disagreements and hard conversations.

A new home can be cozy and inspiring, but it will also need fixing, cleaning and care.

Even your dream job will have tough days, difficult coworkers, or stressful deadlines.

This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pursue the things we want.

It just means we need to embrace the whole package.

The good and the bad.

When we accept that every choice comes with trade-offs, we stop chasing perfection.

And start appreciating the real, messy, wonderful lives we’re building.

Practical Steps

Here are a few ways to put this idea into practice this week:

1. Expect the Trade-Offs: When you’re excited about something new, take a moment to consider what challenges might come with it. This isn’t to scare yourself, but to prepare and set realistic expectations.

2. Embrace the Whole Experience: When you hit a rough patch in your relationship, job, or home life, remind yourself: “This is part of it.” Tough moments don’t mean you made the wrong choice, they’re simply part of the journey.

3. Practice Gratitude for Both Sides: Each day, write down one thing you love and one challenge you’re facing about the same area - like your job or life at home. This helps you see the full picture and appreciate both sides.

4. Talk About It: Share your experiences with another person. Sometimes just saying, “This is harder than I thought, but I still love it,” can help you see the bigger picture and feel less alone.

My Takeaway

I’ve learned that the best things in my life.

The people I love, the work I do, the places I call home, are never perfect.

They come with stress, repairs, disagreements and tough days.

But they’re worth it, every single time.

Life isn’t about finding the perfect path.

It’s about loving the one you’re on, bumps and all.

What’s something in your life that brings both joy and challenge?

I’d love to hear your story.

Let’s celebrate the beautiful, complicated reality of our lives together.

Because the best things are never perfect and that’s what makes them real.

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