Brett Larson is learning to slow down
"It’s OK to be selfish sometimes."
Cinnamon & Oak is a legendary Movember team made up of friends having fun while doing good. Our annual member profiles showcase our merry collection of Mo Bros & Mo Sistas. Today we’re featuring C&O team member Brett Larson from Etobicoke, ON.
Looking back on this year, what achievement or experience are you most proud of?
In June, I got married. Somehow she showed up to the altar! It beat out all the other achievements this year by a mile.
Is there a ritual or habit that sets a positive tone for your day?
I like to make my wife coffee in the morning; though it’s taken a while to figure out her specific coffee order (collagen, two shot americano, 2% milk frothed then poured in for foam at the top, cinnamon sprinkled on top). I was never a coffee drinker, but I am now and this routine is a good 5 minute "do only this" thing where you ignore screens, and do something for someone else first thing in the morning.
What makes Movember meaningful to you?
Everyone needs to take care of themselves, and I’m a big believer that part of that is taking care of those around you as well. Having people to lean on, and being there for others to lean on you about mental and physical health is important for humans, men especially, and we're slowly getting better at doing it.
When you want to unwind, what do you turn to?
Sports Talk radio is a guilty pleasure to zone out to. That or getting out on the lake that I'm lucky enough to live across the street from.
If you could host three people (historical or contemporary, anyone!), who would be at your table?
Anthony Bourdain, Pat Quinn, Dad
What’s a book, show, or podcast that’s captured your interest lately?
Endure by Alex Hutchinson (about endurance athletes), Human Becoming (essay by David Richo), and like I said, a sucker for sports radio, so the OverDrive drive-home show.
Is there a quote or idea that’s been resonating with you?
My uncle recently told me, “Brett, it’s OK to be selfish sometimes.” That bluntness resonated with me. My cousin also recently shared that she is "prioritizing fun" no matter what. Both are good mantras, though one sounds a bit more negative than the other.
What steps have you taken this year to support your mental wellness?
I’m typically a “fill your days and weekends as much as possible” person and now I’m starting to learn to slow down and have a bit more of a "slower" Movember. I’m also seeing a therapist regularly and picking up the phone often to talk to friends and family.
What’s the best way for others in the group to connect with you?
Shoot me a text, my number is in the WhatsApp group.
Support Brett’s campaign through the link:
BTW, for the Mo Bros and Mo Sistas in Vancouver… register now:
TOMORROW: Tuesday, November 12: Mo for Lowe at Earls Yaletown
SATURDAY: November 16: This Sandwich, That Beer Meatball Throwdown at The American