Fall has always been a season of reflection for me. The crisp temperature, the colours in the trees, the warm winds that carry change, and the quiet promise of something new. It energizes me as I think through what this next season will bring.

This past weekend, I returned to my hometown in southern Manitoba, the place where I spent 15 years growing, stumbling, and learning about life. While watching a basketball game in their new sports complex, my eyes landed on a plaque and photo. It was the familiar face, kind eyes, and warm smile of the man who gave me my first real job at the local hardware store when I was 15. Wow! A flood of memories came back: the nervous excitement of my first day, the pride of being trusted, and the gratitude that someone believed I could work hard and contribute.

The sports complex now bears his name, honouring not only his business success, but his love for family, his community spirit and his leadership rooted in care.

What struck me most was that his legacy wasn’t only about what he accomplished. It was about who he was and how he made people feel. His steady character and deep commitment had left a lasting mark.

The encounter made me reflect on legacy and impact. What advice would I give to my younger self, or to others building their careers? Here is what came to mind:

• Everyone needs someone to give them a chance in life, in work, and in relationships. Be that someone.
• Relationships are not a rolodex; they are human connections that matter. Take care of them.
• Love more, worry less. Be okay with mistakes and learn to forgive yourself because to create impact, you must first care for yourself.

This fall, my superpower is connection – and reconnection. My office is covered in blue sticky notes, reminders of the people I want to reach out to and the relationships I want to strengthen. It’s who I am, and it’s what fuels my best work.

Seeing that plaque in my hometown reminded me that impact isn’t only about what we accomplish, but about who we invest in along the way. It’s also why our work at Leaps&Bounds matters. Whether through our managed HR service, compensation design, or our career transition offering, our work is about trust and connection. It’s at the heart of every partnership, and it’s how we create lasting impact.