Urmi Hossain of Montreal on Life, Lessons & Legacy

Urmi Hossain shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Urmi, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
I would love to hire people who are creative and imaginative, responsible for their actions, and serious about what they want from life.

I believe creativity is fundamental in today’s world—it drives innovation and a forward-looking mindset. The biggest companies out there are built by some of the smartest and most creative people on the planet. Creativity is developed through books, movies, and meaningful connections with others.

Seriousness and responsibility are key traits needed to succeed. One needs to take ownership and be accountable for their work. If you make a mistake, you’re responsible for it. You don’t throw others under the bus. You learn from it and move on. If you do something good, your work will be valued and celebrated.

I wouldn’t want to hire people who lack a strong sense of work ethic, integrity, and intelligence.

I believe every job can be taught, but the qualities I’ve mentioned above are priceless.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a woman who wears many hats—multifaceted and multitalented.
Many assume I’m an entrepreneur, but in reality, I’m a proud corporate girl who truly enjoys her day-to-day job. Outside of work, I channel my passion into creative pursuits like podcasting, YouTube, blogging, writing, self-publishing books, and public speaking.

I’m also a strong advocate for women’s empowerment. I currently contribute to Women in Leadership, where I help promote the incredible work we do—offering mentorship, webinars, and leadership development programs to support and uplift women in our communities.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Simply trust.

Trust between two people is the foundation to make a relationship to work.
We need trust in a romantic relationship — to count on each other and to lean on each other.
We need trust in friendship again because we want to rely on a trusted friend when we need to.
We need trust among co-workers, because that’s what makes a team succeed and grow stronger.
We need trust because even if something is unsaid, we know this person will keep the secret.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t be so hard on yourself.

When I was young, I used to blame myself whenever things didn’t go the way I wanted.
For example, if I got a grade I wasn’t expecting, I’d be upset with myself for not studying enough, not reading more, and not putting in enough effort.
If I made a mistake at work, I couldn’t stop telling myself how careless and distracted I was.
If I didn’t get a job I applied for, I told myself it was all my fault — that I wasn’t good enough or qualified enough.

Instead of giving myself grace, celebrating my accomplishments, or telling myself to slow down, I punished myself harshly.
Only later, after many years of reflection, did I realize I needed to be kind to myself — just like I would be to a friend.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am committed to writing my second book—and this time, it doesn’t matter how long it takes. I’m willing to make it happen.

It’s been on my mind for a while. I have so many ideas swirling in my head, and while I sometimes struggle to piece them together, I know I’m determined enough to turn them into something meaningful.

I’m writing this here to hold myself accountable—to say it out loud to the world. Because finishing this second book will be a dream come true.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I would give my best even if no one praises me for it. Why? Because I don’t live for others—I live for myself.
What I do is for me, and me only. I do things to grow, both personally and professionally.
I do what I love for myself. I do things for my happiness and purpose.

I’ve learned to let go of other people’s opinions and validation because chasing validation is a long journey—one that’s almost impossible to fully achieve. No matter what we do, someone won’t be happy.
I don’t need anyone’s praise. I only need my own.

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