Wow, what a journey it has been. I am extremely happy that I have Beyond the Tour's website up and running again. It's no longer my business - it's my passion. I just want to share it with you.

Beyond the Bend will continue to provide excursion ideas and stories from our readers. My goal is to motivate you to experience and enjoy our fantastic natural surroundings in British Columbia.

Oh, and by the way, I am looking for a career with a progressive company that needs a dynamic leader to enhance business success! See my resume...incase I forget to tell you! <Smile>

What an interesting and exciting 2008 it was! Ever since I chose to stop Beyond the Tour back in 2007 as the money wasn't coming in; I realized that I need a TEAM and I am destined for more change. I am also now, more than ever, in line with my strengths and passions. And then - And then, the economy collapses. Team building expenditure drops which meant my time with an employer that aligned with my passions - ends.

Working at Caliber Leadership (No longer in Vancouver) and Pinnacle Pursuits really helped me engage my strengths and become even more aware of my capabilities. From writing an article on communication for Business in Vancouver to leaving Pinnacle with their new strategy in place - it was all good.

As I said after my divorce three years ago, "Either I embrace reality and suffer, or engage my belief in possibilities and win." Well, I am trying to stay in the lead...and I am. I recently got remarried and exchanged vows in Paris. Yay - Stability. Now I want more.

The economy is having its challenges, but we all still need to eat. It might get bad out there, but it's important to believe in possibilities and fight for our dreams.

You won't catch me whining any more.

In case you were wondering, that is a fine red wine that I consumed in Paris.

Wear your Super Hero Outfit.

It's 8:30 and you are walking to work (Sorry, even though this has to do with super hero's, I'm grounded in reality - so no flying) and beneath your nice outfit, you have your tight fitting hero costume on. They can be quite uncomfortable, so there is an easier way to show up every day as a hero.

A year ago I had a conversation with Mike at Virtus Inc. He told me to read StrengthFinders 2.0 by Tom Rath. I have to tell you, it's one of the best things I've done. Do you know what your top talents are? What makes you a Super Hero?

The value of this book is its access to an online test. For approximately $22 you find out what your top strengths are. How NOVEL - No pun intended! Wouldn't that have been a 'nice to have', after high school.

The results reinforced what I somewhat knew but really never connected with. Ideally, if I can acknowledge my strengths and sharpen them, I don't need to hide my Super Hero facade; I can live it.

I know my weaknesses. Reluctantly, I agree I have them. Now I know what type of position will best leverage what I am great at, and enjoy.

We are all Super Hero's.

Opposite Picture (Me after running the Boston Marathon in 2008)

Okay Kids,

What should we do?

Yawn...Another Saturday morning, my kids are up playing Wii and I slowly get out of bed and open the blinds to a spectacular view of a sunny Grouse Mountain! "Honey! It's Sunny!!!", I say. Yes, I am a morning person and my wife isn't. The response isn't favourable.

The reason I loved the sun on this particular Saturday was that I planned a Scavenger Hunt in China Town; a chance for our kids to have fun exploring, discovering, and challenging themselves in a cultural experience. One doesn't have to dig a hole to experience Chinese culture. It was fun.

Want to share in the adventure?

Ninety percent of the battle is planning the course. I will now share it with you. See below for the link. Plan at least 2 hours to run the course and ask your friends to join you for extra adventure. Make sure to take lots of pictures and wear warm clothes (if you are doing this when it's cold).

Stay for lunch or some fantastic Dim Sum.

Click here for the course!

It's times like these; where I am standing in the "I need help" line and asking people for their support. Let it be known, I offer the same if it is ever your turn. I won't be dragged into a hole and I appreciate everyone grabbing my feet.

I am of course looking for an opportunity with the right company (If you couldn't tell). There are a number of people out there that have helped me and shown heart, passion, and care. Of course my Wife, Son, and family have helped as well.

There are few out there that I want to make special mention of:

Gail at Arlyn-Reid: She is a super star. She kick started my path on reading more books to enhance my skills. Infact, she dug them out of her basement - just for me. Thanks!

Andy in my Men's Group: He has always had this fantastic ability to hold up a mirror so I can take ownership of my judgments and work with the baggage I carry.

Cheryl at Red Ball Solutions: Cheryl (Former co-owner of Pinnacle Pursuits) has always inspired me and acknowledged my strengths. Cheryl continues to be an inspiration through her great energy and self-awareness.

Tanya at Teldon: Tanya and I met back in my Caliber days and we had a great connection since the day we met. From opportunities at Teldon to referrals, I have had the awesome pleasure of running into her and benefiting from her support.

There are so many others that have supported me as well. Whether it's keeping their eyes open on opportunities or giving me the chance to share my story, their efforts are appreciated. I can't list you all - but you know who you are.

A Sincere Thank You to All of You.

Cheers,

Glen Sollors

Once we hear our own voice, listen to our bodies, and believe and respect each other,
we all grow.