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My Top 3 of 2020

Nicole Laidler • Dec 28, 2020

My Top 3 of 2020

What can I say about 2020?

It’s been exhausting – but we made it! And despite the challenges, the past 12 months haven’t been all bad. Thanks to the global pandemic, I’ve enjoyed almost-daily walks with my parents, gotten to know my resilient and funny teenager in a whole new way, and discovered my hidden talent for baking bread.  

My business took a hit in March and April, but work has been steady ever since. And although I won’t hit my target income for 2020, my biggest challenge this year was juggling my workload with a bored teen under my feet. That’s a blessing that I don't take for granted. 

This year, much – but not all – of my writing has been pandemic related. So without further ado, here are my top three picks for this annus horribilis.  

Equality vs. Equity: What does it mean for your workplace?
I wrote this article for Western Continuing Studies in January – four months before the murder of George Floyd. It’s just a short piece, and certainly not my best writing. So why did it make my list? 

Because it made me think.  

Before interviewing WCS instructor Rita Perepelitsky, I had never really considered the difference between equality and equity. Or what it meant in an institutional setting such as a school or workplace. 

Curious? You can read the full story here

Creating a more beautiful future. 
It’s no secret that COVID-19 has made life tough for independent retailers. But the global pandemic didn’t stop Mairi Shewfelt from pushing ahead with her dream of launching Yatta Brands. Her online store and retail studio offers the best in vegan beauty and lifestyle products from around the globe. 

Not only is Mairi a client, she’s also become a friend. And I’ve become a die-hard fan of some of her glorious products. So it was great to be able to help this tenacious businesswoman spread the word with this article, written for London Inc’s content studio. 


Comfortably Grand
When COVID-19 hit, I wasn’t sure how it would affect Our Homes magazine. Luckily, the show went on and I’ve been able to continue writing about some of London’s most fabulous homes, including this one in Old North. 

Turns out I’d met the owner, Grant Gilvesy, almost 20 years ago. After catching up, he took me on a (masked) tour of his beautiful heritage home. It felt almost normal and was a welcome distraction from all things COVID. That’s why this story made the cut. 

Need a break from the daily COVID-count? Read my story here. 

On a personal note…
As I get ready to welcome 2021, I’d like to acknowledge my clients who have allowed me to keep working at something I love. 

This year has been a juggle, and at times I’ve struggled to keep all the balls in the air. Thank you for your patience and understanding when I’ve been stretched too thin.

I wish you all a peaceful, joyful, prosperous and healthy New Year. 

Nicole Laidler is a freelance reporter, copywriter and content creator, serving clients in London, Toronto and throughout Southwestern Ontario. She helps people grow their success, one word at a time.

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