A Career Built on Gratitude, Growth, and Saying Yes

Brian Proctor shares a lifelong journey shaped by a love of hospitality, beginning with an early experience in the Queen Elizabeth Hotel that inspired him to work closely with people. He describes building his career across major companies including ITT Sheraton, Four Seasons, Interstate, and Starwood, where he learned both exceptional service and the business fundamentals of running hotels. His path reflects a willingness to take on new challenges, embrace learning at every level, and develop trusted relationships that opened doors throughout his career.

Brian also discusses the evolution of his leadership, from early micromanaging to learning how to trust teams as his responsibilities expanded. He explains the importance of saying yes, accepting challenges even when daunting, and developing skills such as public speaking, team building, and remote leadership. His later work - including consulting, supporting startups, and launching his gratitude-focused podcast and programs - demonstrates how curiosity, gratitude, and intentional growth have guided his success.

Quotes/Highlights

• "You need to thank people while they're around . . . to thank one person a week for 52 weeks."
• "Do what you love, enjoy what you do . . . the money will follow."
• "Say Yes to any challenge your boss gives you . . . they've seen something in you."
• "There's no one single way to get to the CEO's desk . . . make your own path."
• "You have to work at it . . . it doesn't happen organically."

Closing Reflection

Brian’s story illustrates how growth comes from embracing opportunity, nurturing relationships, and practicing daily gratitude. His experiences show that careers evolve through curiosity, courage, and a willingness to stretch beyond comfort zones. By saying yes, working with intention, and expressing appreciation along the way, anyone can build a meaningful and fulfilling path forward.

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