May Week 2 Reflection – Parsa

If I were to step in for Jessica and Mikayla to host the Monday meetings, what would you recommend adding to make them more engaging? Do you have any creative icebreaker ideas?

If I ever had the chance to step in for Jessica and Mikayla to host the Monday meetings, I would definitely want to make them fun, welcoming, and something everyone looks forward to. I think meetings are more enjoyable when we start with a little bit of laughter or something creative. That’s why my icebreaker idea would be two truths and a lie. It’s a simple game, but it helps the team get to know each other in a cool and funny way. Everyone takes turns saying three things about themselves two that are true, and one that’s made up. The rest of the team has to guess which one is the lie. It’s always hilarious to hear what people come up with, and sometimes the truths are even crazier than the lies. It’s a great way to bring some energy and smiles into the start of the week. After the icebreaker, I’d introduce a team challenge for the week. Challenges are a good way to build a little friendly competition and also give us something to work toward as a group. For example, I’d start with a simple one like the get moving challenge, where everyone tries to take at least a 5 minute walk or stretch break every day. This helps keep our bodies active and gives us a break from sitting too long. At the end of the week, we could check in and see how everyone did.

If you weren’t working from home or the Markham office, what would be your ideal place to work and why?

If I wasn’t working from home or at the Markham office, my ideal place to work would be a cozy coffee shop like Starbucks. I really like the peaceful and relaxing vibe that coffee shops have. The soft music in the background, the smell of fresh coffee, and the warm lights make it a perfect place to concentrate. It feels comfortable and chill, which helps me focus better than being in a quiet room at home. Sometimes, working at home can feel boring or lonely, but a coffee shop has people around, which makes it feel more alive without being too loud. One of the best things about working in a coffee shop is that I can enjoy tasty drinks while I get my tasks done. I could sip on a hot chocolate while working on emails or creating marketing ideas. Having a drink nearby makes working feel less like a chore and more like a fun routine. Also, some coffee shops have big windows where the sunlight comes in, and that makes the space feel open and refreshing. A good environment helps me stay positive and creative, which is important for my role. Another reason I would like to work there is that it gives me a small change of scenery. Sometimes, just being in a new place can make you feel more motivated. It feels inspiring to be in a space where others are also doing work or having calm conversations. It’s like being part of a quiet community of hardworking people.

If you could only communicate with your team through emojis for a week, what would be your go-to emoji and why?

If I could only communicate with my team through emojis for a whole week, my go-to emoji would be the 👍 (thumbs up) emoji. It might seem basic, but it’s actually super helpful and flexible. I would use it to show agreement, approval, and understanding. For example, if someone sends me a message and I want to say, “Got it” or “Sounds good,” a simple 👍 would let them know I understand without needing to write anything. It’s quick, clear, and positive. Another reason I’d choose the thumbs up emoji is that it keeps the mood friendly and encouraging. It’s like giving someone a digital high five. It shows support and makes people feel like they’re doing a good job. When you can’t use words, it’s important to use emojis that send a positive vibe, and the thumbs up does exactly that. Even though it’s just one emoji, it can be used in so many situations. Let’s say someone shares an update, I would give the thumbs up. Someone finishes a task, another thumbs up. I want to say yes or okay, thumbs up again. It’s basically the emoji version of being a team player. Plus, it’s really easy to understand, so no one gets confused by what I’m trying to say. I also like that the thumbs up emoji keeps things simple. When you only have emojis to communicate, things can get complicated really fast. But a 👍 keeps the conversation moving and shows that I’m still active and paying attention. It helps me stay connected with the team even without using real words.

What’s your spirit animal when it comes to working style? Describe how your ‘spirit animal’ reflects your approach to work, and share how it influences your interactions with the team.

If I had to pick a spirit animal that matches my working style, I would choose the turtle. Turtles might not be the fastest animals, but they are calm, steady, and always keep moving forward. That’s exactly how I am when I work. I like to take my time to make sure I fully understand the task, and I don’t rush just to get things done quickly. Instead, I focus on doing things the right way, even if it takes a bit longer. Being like a turtle means I stay patient, even when things get stressful or confusing. I try not to panic or rush, because I know that staying cool and thinking carefully will help me finish my work better. Sometimes people think moving slowly is a bad thing, but I believe it’s smart to take your time so you don’t make silly mistakes. Slow and steady really does win the race, just like in the old fable. My turtle mindset also affects how I interact with my team. I’m not loud or super fast at replying, but I always make sure my responses are thoughtful and helpful. I listen to others, take in their ideas, and then share my own in a calm and respectful way. I try to bring a peaceful, steady energy to the team, and I think that helps when we’re working on tough tasks or solving problems.