Caterina Petrolo: Advocate for Indigenous Rights

Caterina Petrolo is a passionate advocate for indigenous rights. Her journey is deeply rooted in her personal connection to Indigenous peoples, driven by her common-law partner’s struggle to obtain his Indigenous Status. Through this interview, Caterina shares her daily routine, entrepreneurial insights, and valuable life lessons.

What does your typical day look like, and how do you make it productive?

My day usually starts early. I wake up and take care of my dog, ensuring he’s comfortable and happy. After that, it’s off to the gym by 8:30 AM for my personal training session. Staying physically active is important to me, and it’s a great way to kickstart my day.

By 10 AM, I’m at work, fully focused on my professional responsibilities. I believe in the importance of maintaining a structured routine to maximize productivity. I try to complete my work by 4 PM.

In the evenings, I’m currently enrolled in an online Indigenous Studies course through the University of Alberta. This is a personal passion of mine, and I spend my evenings reading and participating in class lessons.

Staying organized is key to making my day productive. I also maintain a healthy diet and stick to my daily routine, which helps me stay on top of things.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Bringing ideas to life requires setting realistic expectations and conducting thorough research. I make sure to set achievable goals for any project or idea I’m working on. Research plays a crucial role; I spend time researching and gathering information to ensure that my ideas are well-informed and can be implemented effectively.

What’s one trend that excites you?

One trend that excites me is Artificial Intelligence (AI). I find the field of AI incredibly fascinating. The potential it holds for the future is mind-boggling. Of course, I’m also excited about trends in travel and food; exploring new places and cuisines is always a joy.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

A habit that has significantly contributed to my productivity as an entrepreneur is setting realistic goals. By breaking down larger objectives into smaller, achievable steps, I can make steady progress toward my business goals.

What advice would you give your younger self?

If I could go back and speak to my younger self, I would offer a few pieces of advice. Firstly, I’d tell myself to learn to let things go. Holding onto unnecessary stress or worries doesn’t serve any purpose. I’d also emphasize the importance of not caring too much about what others think. This can be liberating and allows you to focus on your path. Lastly, I’d encourage my younger self never to turn down opportunities just because it might not seem like the right time. Some of the most significant opportunities in life come when you least expect them.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

Consistency in my daily routine is one thing I prioritize and recommend to others. Having a well-structured routine helps me stay organized and on top of my tasks. I also rely on apps and reminders to ensure I don’t forget any important commitments.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

One strategy that has played a crucial role in growing my business is being strong-willed and incredibly persistent. The journey of an entrepreneur is often filled with challenges and setbacks, but by staying persistent and determined, you can overcome these obstacles and keep moving forward.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

One significant failure I experienced as an entrepreneur was spreading myself too thin and taking on too many tasks at once. It became overwhelming, and I realized that I needed to regroup and refocus. To overcome this, I made some changes. I delegated some of my work to others, which allowed me to regain control and prioritize my efforts more effectively.

What is the best $100 you recently spent, and why?

On a personal note, the best $100 I recently spent was on a Fitbit watch. It has been a game-changer for me. I never realized how important a fitness watch could be for tracking daily health and activity levels. It’s become an invaluable tool for monitoring my well-being.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

A software tool that has been instrumental in my productivity is the Structured Daily Planner. This online app and calendar help me add structure and organization to my daily life. It provides alerts and notifications, which are crucial for keeping me on track. I can enter my daily tasks, meetings, deadlines, and personal to-do items, ensuring that I stay organized and never miss an important commitment.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read, and why?

One book that I highly recommend is “8th Fire” in both audio DVD and book formats. This series delves into the histories, cultures, and contemporary issues of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It’s essential reading for Canadian communities to gain insight into Indigenous cultures, understand the hardships they face, and recognize the importance of repairing relationships for a brighter future. This series brings hope and education, which are crucial for future generations.

Caterina Petrolo and her professional journey is a testament to her dedication and passion for indigenous rights and her entrepreneurial spirit. Her insights and advice provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a positive impact and achieve success in their endeavors.