Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Charlotte Canion. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Charlotte, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
My purpose in life has become very apparent to me in the past 10 years. I had always wanted to be an author and at the age of 70 my dream came through. I had been the caregiver for 3 parents with Dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s for over 16 years. My first book came out and winning many awards as an expert in the Senior Health Industry. I always want to be on the top of my game and being ask to speak in front of audiences every where, I took the ISA (International Speakers Association Academy) class and became a professional speaker. Now I entertain with laughter, facts, quotes and knowledge on many topics. Yes, I have found my purpose and I am having the time of my life. I have been told; “To know me is to Love me.”
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My brand has become “Caring for the Caregiver”. I am now know as the “Voice of the Caregiver”. I entertain seniors in communities all over with my songs, jokes and stories. My first grade teacher said “This is a little girl who knows how to win friends and influence people.” I guess my life has been full us lessons I have learned. Being the grandmother of 20, it gives me joy to be the example of how life should be lived to the fullest each and everyday and grow from successes and failures. After having cancer, I realized that I needed to take care of myself, so I became a Texas SuperStar Master Gardener, which resulted in my becoming the inventor of the Basket Jacket.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Find the passion within you that makes a difference in your life and those around you. 2. Study, learn and listen to those who will help you become the best version of yourself.
3. Help others to achieve their goals.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
I have grown in the past 20 years, but about a year ago I was 1st runner up in the Ms Texas Senior America pageant. And then I was ask to be President of their Cameo Club, because of my organizational skills and dedication to whatever it is I am doing. As a member of the Christian Women in Media Organization, I was recently ask to be on the National Board of directors. Everyone I meet in my journey, I feel I learn from, but I also share my knowledge to help them be the best they can be.
