Why the Small Moments Matter
Why the Small Moments Matter
This month I was reminded why I started on the journey of entrepreneurship.
A few key moments occurred that left me feeling upbeat and happy. Truthfully, it felt like I received a little message from the universe that I was indeed on the right path. Seriously.
I’m not talking about anything major or out of the ordinary. I’m talking about everyday life.
A Simple Site Visit That Meant More
Last week, I was able to meet a few contractors on-site at a property I manage. The Board is currently looking for quotes, and historically, pre-NCM, I often didn’t have the capacity to meet contractors on-site to discuss scope. I would send my request and wait for the quotes to roll in.
For someone who understands and craves human connection, that was always difficult for me to reconcile.
This time, as I met one of the contractors on-site, I was reminded just how important it is to build personal relationships with the people I work with and alongside. He was surprised, and genuinely appreciative, that I was there in person.
During our conversation, he mentioned how often he receives requests without ever meeting the property manager, and how much he prefers being able to connect face-to-face. It allows for better understanding, clearer expectations, and stronger working relationships.
When he asked why I went out on my own, I simply smiled and said:
“For this.”
And I truly meant it.
It seems simple, but in reality, it’s the small human connections that can make this job feel a lot less chaotic.
Being Present for More Than Work
This month, while working from my basement office, I was also able to be present and available to support my step-son as he begins launching his own landscaping and snow removal company here in the Waterloo Region. (give him a visit on Instagram @ Lucid.Landscaping).
As the winter season slows down and we move into spring, he made the decision to go out on his own. Maybe watching me grind away, and still be happy even on the hard days, inspired him. Maybe not. Either way, I was ready and available to help guide him and share my experience to get him moving in the right direction.
And I didn’t feel like I was on the clock or needing to justify taking time for personal reasons. If you know, you know.
The Value of Local Connection
This month I was also invited to attend a BNI breakfast event. Shout out to Rick at Poop Valet for the invite. What a dynamic, knowledgeable, and supportive group of professionals.
If you don’t know about BNI, you are not alone. I didn’t either. It is a group of professionals who meet regularly to share experiences, challenges, and most importantly, support each other in their business journeys.
I’ve also been participating in the KW Chamber of Commerce’s peer groups and networking events, which have been incredibly valuable as a newer business owner. Being surrounded by like-minded professionals who are open to sharing and collaborating makes a real difference.
These are opportunities I likely would not have had, or made time for, if I wasn’t working for myself.
Continuing to Learn
This month I also completed my fifth ACMO Advanced Managers Course, with one more (mandatory course) to go before obtaining my RCM designation.
As a lifelong learner, I’ve found these courses to be not only informative, but extremely valuable as I continue on this path of entrepreneurship.
I’ve also been collaborating with a small group to explore modern approaches and technology within the condominium management space. Nothing concrete yet, but the conversations alone have been incredibly valuable.
We all come at this industry from different angles, and that perspective is powerful. It allows us to challenge the status quo and think about how things could be done better.
Why Niven Condo Management
This month, I feel extremely grateful for trusting myself enough to take the leap and build something of my own through Niven Condo Management.
If you’ve ever wondered why I chose the name, it is very much an homage to my father.
He immigrated to Canada at 21 with very little, and went on to build his own successful company, W.M. Niven & Associates Ltd.. If you know, you know, a daughter always wants to make her father proud. I was incredibly close with mine, and following in his entrepreneurial footsteps felt both natural and meaningful.
A Thought as We Head Into Spring
If I have any advice as we head into spring, it’s this:
Follow what feels right, even if it scares the poop out of you.
Pay attention to the little moment’s life presents to you. The quick hallway conversation. The contractor who shares a personal milestone. The meeting of like minds exchanging ideas.
Because sometimes, it’s not the big wins that matter most.
It’s the small moments that remind you you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Written by: Shiona Niven March 18, 2026
