Good morning on Woman Power Wednesday from Preston, England. (Here’s a word for you: IKIGAI.) I’m back on the trail, helping BAE Systems use the Autodesk Design and Make Platform to make the world safer.
Preston is a historic city in Lancashire, England.
Known for its rich industrial heritage and modern urban landscape. It is situated on the River Ribble and blends landmark architecture, green spaces, and contemporary developments. The city played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution, particularly in the textile industry. Today Preston maintains a balance between tradition and innovation. With landmarks like the Harris Museum, the Preston Guild Hall, and nearby scenic areas such as Avenham and Miller Parks, Preston offers a mix of cultural, historical, and recreational attractions.
Later today, we travel to Barrow-in-Furness.
(We don’t name towns in America like this!) Barrow-in-Furness is a coastal town in Cumbria, North West England. It is known for its shipbuilding industry and maritime heritage. Situated on the Furness Peninsula, Barrow has a striking landscape with views of the Irish Sea and is near the Lake District. Historically, the town grew during the 19th century, mainly due to its iron and steel production and its role in shipbuilding, which continues today with BAE Systems as a major employer, producing submarines for the Royal Navy. Barrow also boasts attractions like the Dock Museum, which highlights its industrial past, and scenic areas like Walney Island, offering wildlife reserves and beaches. While industrial at its core, Barrow has a rugged charm with its maritime roots and natural surroundings.
A great little book with an unusual name: IKIGAI.
I continue to think about my project RELEVANCE: From Beginning to End. I’m reminded of a little book with an unusual name, recommended by my friend Hanah Vissepo of Chicago, Illinois. IKIGAI: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. Tomorrow, on MAKE Anything Thursday, I’ll share more about IKIGAI and why Cathy and I have set a goal to visit each of the five Blue Zones:
- Okinawa, Japan – Known for its elderly population, Okinawa’s residents live long, healthy lives thanks to a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, and strong social networks.
- Sardinia, Italy – This mountainous region boasts an unusually high number of centenarians, credited to a Mediterranean diet, active lifestyle, and close-knit family ties.
- Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica – The people of Nicoya live long, healthy lives due to their nutrient-rich diet, strong sense of purpose, and deep family connections.
- Ikaria, Greece – This island has low rates of dementia and chronic disease, with longevity linked to a Mediterranean diet, regular social engagement, and a relaxed pace of life.
- Loma Linda, California – A community of Seventh-day Adventists, Loma Linda residents enjoy long lives due to a faith-based lifestyle, plant-based diet, and focus on health and family.
In closing, congratulations Hanah, on your new professional opportunity. Your search was long and sometimes challenging, but I love how you landed squarely in your sweet spot. (MCP Rescue is a Chicago based animal rescue that finds Forever Homes for the overlooked, abused, and at risk animals.)
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve joined the MCP Rescue & Outreach Team as the Operations Manager!
Happy Woman Power Wednesday, Hanah V! You have found the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for – IKIGAI!
