What an amazing journey!

In this profession, my clients share deeply personal information and private thoughts about their goals and dreams. Our success relies on a very open and honest line of communication and I’m always grateful for the trust and confidence people so willingly extend to me.

Once our partnership begins, the focus is entirely on you and your objectives. So at this stage, I want to personally introduce myself and let you know a little about who I am. Here’s a recorded interview with my journalist friend Ann, during our recent lunch at Langdon Hall, Kitchener:

Lisa Holba, 38

Where was your first job?

It was a small cafe – in hindsight, the atmosphere was a lot like the bar on the famous Cheers TV show, minus the alcohol. They had a minimum age requirement of 13 to work there. I was 12. My ambitious nature had big plans for my life and decided I wanted the job now so I fibbed about my age. They started me with the prestigious duty of peeling potatoes. In a very short time, I was managing the busy restaurant and although I don't miss smelling like a french fry, I really did enjoy that job - like the Cheers show, I loved my 'regulars'.

What are the 3 skills you require most to do your present job well?

• To hear what people don't say
• A creative, open mind. Very open.
• Ability to turn a no into a yes...

What do you love most about your career?

Mentoring. Helping people to succeed and prosper is what I was born to do and I’m grateful to be at a place in my career and life where I can share some of what I’ve learned. I also love inspiring people to create positive change.

What would you say is your greatest asset?

I’m naturally a very positive and happy person. I know I’m fortunate that this is part of my nature and that I don't have to work at it.

What is something people don’t know about you?

I write music - song lyrics.

What is your secret weapon?

I'm usually a step ahead but I never let on.

Do you have any faults?

Of course. The first one that comes to mind is I can be too independent for my own good. I'm also a perfectionist although I've made huge strides to let a lot of that go.

If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be?

Bill Clinton or Anderson Cooper. I think they are both highly intelligent and would offer fascinating conversation. The mind has always intrigued me and I’m drawn to people who fully utilize theirs. Bill has a unique gift with the way he articulates - he captures an audience unlike anything I've ever seen before. Anderson has a strong presence too and he's certainly got my vote in the "world's most handsome" category which, if I'm honest, probably influenced my decision somewhat.

What is your best advice?

Strive to be better than you were yesterday - more educated, sophisticated, or evolved.

What can't you live without?

My son’s smile, Frank (my hairdresser), and peppermint tea.

Your favourite restaurant?

Langdon Hall in the summer...the patio is spectacular!

Charbries, Kitchener – their Caesar salad is over-the-top delicious!

Or Auberge Du Pommier, Toronto – if I opened a restaurant, it would be similar to this one.

Your favourite vacation?

Australia. I took a leave of absence from my corporate position, and went “down under” for 6 weeks. I travelled solo and it was an adventure. When you travel by yourself, there’s a different kind of growth and learning that happens. On my own I was forced to meet people I wouldn’t have met and do things I wouldn’t have done. I also discovered that I pack a lot more than I need and I can be a little bit of a “princess” when it comes to accommodations - both of which are not an asset when you're travelling for 6 weeks throughout Australia.

If you could try your hand at another career for a year, what would you do?

A wine connoisseur. A travel writer. A restaurant critic. An apprentice for Donald Trump. A pilot. A fashion designer. There’s more but we’re only talking about 1 year here!

Obsessions?

Organic food, being environmentally friendly and drinking water.

Your favourite meal?

My famous chicken or fish on salad. It sounds boring but trust me I make it exciting and very tasty! Dessert? Dark chocolate. At least 70% cocoa. My mouth is watering.

What has surprised you most in life?

The unconditional love I have for my son, Colton. I had never known anything like it...it's the kind of love you’d die for and never give it a second thought. He’s the one and only thing in life that makes me completely vulnerable and that alone has changed me.

Favourite song?

Right now, Chris Daughtry’s new song: “No Surprise”. I love Jesse Cook's Vertigo CD while I'm sitting by the pool on a warm summer night. “Sometimes When We Touch” by Dan Hill is another all-time favourite. The meaning behind the song is really sad but it's also powerful and I think everyone can relate to it at some level. I've always said if you use a mirror, relationships can teach you the most about yourself, and life.

If you were granted one wish...

I would wish that all children are safe and living in a healthy, loving family.

Last book you’ve read:

Broken Open by Elizabeth Lesser. I’m presently reading The Valley of Horses by Jean M. Auel.

Anything you hate?

I don't like the word hate. I experience a strong reaction to someone disrespecting another living being. A person, animal, or nature. I also have zero tolerance for negative words spoken about someone else – especially when they’re not present. Because I greatly value loyalty I guess it’s safe to say I’m not a fan of betrayal (but then again, who is?).

What do you love?

Where do I begin...

What are you most proud of?

My family – hands down! I have been blessed.

Favourite words of wisdom?

"When a person shows you who they are; believe them."

"Happiness is independent of external circumstances."

"You were sent here to take care of YOUR soul, don’t fall down on the job."