Introducing Our September Member Spotlight: Meet carl!
We are thrilled to introduce our Member of the Month, Carl! An exceptional squash player with a remarkable skill set, Carl continues to impress us all with his dedication and finesse on the court. What makes Carl truly special is his humble nature and the genuine kindness he brings to every interaction. Whether he's in the midst of a thrilling match or simply enjoying a friendly chat, Carl's warm smile and positive attitude light up the Lemonade Collective. His passion for the game and cheerful presence make him a true asset to our community.
Can you share a brief overview of your background and journey that has led you to where you are today?
I’ve often been drawn to other people’s stories. I think that’s probably how I ended up with a degree in English, and maybe what led in part to my becoming a paralegal. Over the years I’ve worked in a diversity of workplaces, doing jobs from computer repair and website design, to painting and landscaping. I’ve been lucky to work with a lot of knowledgeable, passionate, and effective people.
I recently started a business called “Collingwood Carl” (www.collingwoodcarl.ca), and I’ve been grateful to continue learning under the guidance of others, while effectively drawing on past experiences and putting them to use.
What are some of the key moments or experiences in your life or career that have shaped who you are and what you're passionate about?
When I was young and school was out for the summer, my parents, busy with work, enrolled me in tennis camp. I’m not sure exactly what inspired them to bring me there, but I stumbled into an obsession with the game for many years.
Fast forward to the end of university—I wasn’t as physically active, but fondly remembered my tennis days. I took a job at the Toronto Lawn Tennis Club, hoping to pick up the racket again. However, as a private club I wasn’t allowed to play. Fortunately, a colleague mentioned that the club would subsidize a gym membership, and he brought me out to play squash at a local gym. I’ve been playing ever since.
Could you highlight some of the projects or endeavours you're currently involved in that you're particularly excited about?
At work I’ve been fortunate to engage in a variety of projects. Some require careful research and planning, which I thoroughly enjoy. However, I also enjoy the unpredictability of days when I schedule work with others and don’t quite know where we’ll be going, or what tasks we’ll be tackling. This blend of structure and spontaneity keeps me energized and excited.
On the squash court I get a thrill out of playing in tournaments. There’s a unique excitement in playing at unfamiliar venues, sometimes with different court conditions. You never know how your competitor will perform or what it will take to excel in the moment.
What drives and motivates you in your work or personal pursuits, and how do you stay inspired and focused?
People say that fear is a great motivator, and I think there’s truth to that. It makes sense to want to avoid things we fear. I do think that personal interest can be a great motivator as well. When I’m genuinely interested in a process or focused on achieving a specific result, I naturally feel inspired to perform whatever activity is at hand.
I try not to force myself to focus if I’m not feeling it, especially when the situation isn’t urgent. Instead I find it more effective to take a break—whether it’s getting a bite to eat, going for a walk, having a nap, or enjoying a cup of tea. I find that when I return to the task, I perform better, with a renewed energy and interest.
