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ODM's BLOG

Welcome to this week’s edition of Wednesday Wisdom, where we highlight inspiring entrepreneurs and their unique perspectives. This week, we feature Joe Altman, a seasoned professional in the oil industry who sheds light on the struggles faced by small businesses in Canada.



to develop a brand takes time - tere run

Joe speaks candidly about the challenges that small businesses encounter, particularly the lack of support from the government. According to Joe, many small businesses feel stuck, unable to grow or thrive under current conditions. This stagnation, he notes, is a significant barrier for entrepreneurs who are passionate about their work but find themselves held back by systemic issues.


Having worked in the oil industry for years, Joe’s experiences reflect a broader reality for many small business owners in Canada. Despite the difficulties, Joe remains committed to his industry, showing resilience and determination to navigate these challenges.


Joe’s story is a reminder of the strength and perseverance required to run a small business in today’s climate. It also highlights the importance of advocating for changes that support entrepreneurs and enable them to succeed.


Stay tuned for more insights from inspiring individuals in future editions of Wednesday Wisdom.





Welcome to this week’s edition of Wednesday Wisdom, where we spotlight leaders who share their valuable experiences and advice. This week, we’re thrilled to introduce Anna Maria Hartley, founder of Thrive and Outlive and a dedicated habits coach. Anna’s story is one of perseverance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of meaningful goals—not just in life but in business as well.



to develop a brand takes time - tere run

The Power of Finding Your "Why"

For Anna, success didn’t come easily. “There is no magic pill,” she says. “Nothing worth achieving comes without effort.” As a habits coach, she emphasizes that meaningful progress starts with identifying your purpose—your “why.”


“It took me time to figure out what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go,” Anna shares. “But the moment I understood why I was doing what I was doing, everything started to fall into place.” This clarity gave her the strength and direction to build her business and help others do the same.


The Journey to Self-Discovery

Anna’s approach involves more than just surface-level goal setting. She believes that true transformation begins when you take the time to go deep within yourself.


“You need to sit down, breathe, and ask yourself the hard questions,” she advises. “Why am I doing this? What do I truly want to achieve? What drives me?” By answering these questions, she believes individuals can uncover a sense of purpose that serves as a foundation for all their efforts.


Habits for Success in Business and Life

As the founder of Thrive and Outlive, Anna works with clients to cultivate habits that align with their goals and values. She believes that habits are the building blocks of success, and they’re just as critical for businesses as they are for individuals.


“Your habits reflect your priorities,” Anna explains. “If you align them with your why, they will naturally support your journey.” Whether it’s managing time effectively, maintaining focus, or fostering healthy relationships, Anna’s coaching equips people with the tools to thrive and outlive their challenges.


Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Anna’s wisdom is simple but profound:


  • Discover Your Why: Take the time to reflect deeply on your purpose and let it guide your actions.

  • Be Patient: Building meaningful habits and achieving long-term success takes time and consistency.

  • Focus on the Journey: Success isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s about growing and learning along the way.

  • Stay True to Yourself: Your “why” is unique to you. Don’t compare your journey to others’.


Inspiring Purpose and Progress

Anna Maria Hartley’s story reminds us that clarity of purpose is the key to unlocking potential. Her work with Thrive and Outlive empowers individuals to embrace their “why” and build the habits necessary for sustainable growth. For Anna, success isn’t about shortcuts; it’s about intentionality, persistence, and the courage to pursue what truly matters.





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