Stepahnie Staples Summer 09

I wanted to say, because it is the most positive city in Canada. Before I can say that, though, I want it to be true. So, will you join me on my quest to look on the bright side, to see the glass half full, to see the light at the end of the tunnel and all those other clichés?

Doreen is going to help by posting positive, uplifting notes in her condo elevator. This small act of kindness has the potential to turn someone’s day around and to shift their perspective.

Linda is going to help by removing the words “tired,” “busy” and “stressed” from her vocabulary. She says, “It makes an awesome difference in how you feel. I knew that saying those words were tiring but just didn’t realize how much.” She is also encouraging her significant other to do the same.

Geoff is going to help by committing to pick up litter in his neighbourhood once a week. Tannis suggested joining Toastmasters to uplift your spirits on a regular basis. We are a positive bunch! Winnipeggers know that the sun loves shining in our city, winter will always end, the swelling rivers will always subside, and we can ski, swim, hike, bike, climb, blade or skate ‘til our heart’s content. Our beautiful summers are second to none, we have some of the best restaurants and cultural activities in the country, and our city is big enough to always have something to do but small enough to get across town in a jiffy. The people are fab: we have a strong volunteer community and we are quick to help out when needed. We even have our own awesome magazine and we celebrate our own beautiful women.

Instead of comparing ourselves to other places, we need to focus on what we have to offer here. When someone asks you where you are from, proudly proclaim “Winnipeg.” Ask them if they have been here and invite them to come. Sometimes we need to have out-of-town visitors to force us to see our city in a new light.

My husband and I recently spent 24 hours as tourists in town—we started with a meal at VJ’s Drive-Inn, saw a Goldeyes game and spent a spectacular night at the gorgeous Fort Garry Hotel and enjoyed their famous morning smorg.

Speaking of the Fort Garry Hotel, they have graciously offered to assist in my Positive City Campaign by offering a free night’s stay and brunch for two to the person who sends in the best suggestion to help make Winnipeg the Most Positive City. Email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , with something that you can and will do, something we can all do, to lift the spirits of the people and the profile of the city. Remember it has to be something we have control over, not something that depends on government or other people.

I look so forward to hearing your ideas.

Remember, it’s your life. Live it—unlimited!

Stephanie seeks to inspire the masses to strive for uncommon success and speaks internationally in the area of personal growth, empowerment and wellness. You can listen to Your Life, Unlimited live on Sundays from 5 to 6 p.m. on CJOB 680 or visit www.yourlifeunlimited.ca for more bursts of inspiration.