@joanna.dementia.e: Reflecting on my time at Think Tank 2024 in Austin, Texas, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and inspiration. After 20 years in dementia care and senior living, I’ve often felt like an outsider, frustrated by the status quo and dismissed for caring too deeply. I can’t count the times I was told I was too sensitive or was fired for refusing to support poor care for our elders. Yet, I’ve always known there was a better way. As I like to say now, “I used to get fired for my opinion, but now I get paid for it.” Being at Think Tank feels like restoration for my soul. It’s a validation that there truly is a better way to care for seniors. To be surrounded by people who don’t just say they love their residents but actively live it out is deeply encouraging, inspiring, and heartwarming. It’s a rare and beautiful thing to be in a community of like-minded people where vulnerability is embraced, and growth is mutual. At Think Tank, I feel free to be myself, knowing I’ll be accepted and loved for who I am. This year, I’ve gained a renewed sense of purpose. Learning about content and marketing shifted my perspective, especially Sarah Edward’s idea of “edu-tainment” — blending education with entertainment to truly connect with others. Nicole Will’s training on the thought leadership was especially eye-opening. Her approach challenged my understanding of what thought leadership really means. It’s about speaking out with authenticity, heart, and intention. I’ve always felt like a thought leader in my heart, but this year has reignited my passion and reminded me that my experiences, thoughts, and feelings matter and can help transform the dementia care industry and gave me the confidence to embrace my unique style as a thought leader. James Lee’s session on strategy was a revelation for me. Strategy has always been my weakest point in business, but his powerful quote, “If your strategy isn’t to win, then you’re losing,” resonated deeply. I now understand that strategy is the bow to my arrow, giving direction and power to everything I aim for. Connecting with old friends who feel like soul sisters and forming new bonds with incredible people has been another highlight. Encouraging others and being encouraged in return has been truly life-giving. Looking ahead, this experience has given me clarity on what 2025 will look like for my nonprofit, Memory Lane Foundation. With a renewed sense of purpose, I’m ready to combine my passion, experience, and the tools I’ve gained to drive real, lasting change in dementia care. This year’s Think Tank has been a transformative experience, propelling me forward into my destiny and giving me the confidence and clarity to lead with purpose. I am deeply grateful and eager to bring these lessons to life through Memory Lane Foundation. James Lee Nicole Will Erin Thompson Jean Hartnett Carrie Aalberts, MS Adria Thompson MA, CCC-SLP Cathy Neece Brown, CFRE, CSPG Kris Chana

Joanna | Dementia Expert

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Friday 13 December 2024 01:54:40 GMT