About

GINA VALENTI

World traveler, inspiration seeker, and explorer of all things culture, Gina Valenti is passionate about inspiring hearts and minds.

So what’s with the pink cast?

In August of 2012, I broke my wrist. Not doing something cool like saving a small child from a burning building or anything.  Nope, I was bowling. At a team-building event in St. Louis (with oh-so-many witnesses). It seems I put a little too much of myself into throwing the ball and down the alley I tumbled.  The fix? A cast from my shoulder to my fingertips. The big decision? Choosing my cast color. After consulting with my ER technician and my wise and wonderful friends, I went with PINK.

Some said pink would help others notice my temporary condition and offer assistance. However, I thought the color was just plain happy. It reminded me not to take the situation too seriously and have a little fun with this twist in the road.

Six weeks in a giant pink cast grounded me in a few things. First, I was literally grounded from traveling for my job … although I found that time in my office allowed me to be present and focused. And when you’re operating with one, not-so-handy left hand, you have to find new ways of navigating the world (try tying your shoelaces with one hand if you want to see what I mean). I found myself being much more intentional and focused.

Sometimes the tumbles in life are actually gifts in disguise. They teach you patience, change your outlook, and force intentionality and creativity. Not that I’m suggesting breaking your wrist or anything. Although when you feel like your life’s pace is set on warp speed, pumping the brakes may be just what you need to help you focus.

I’ve been in hospitality for most of my career. I love inspiring team members and exploring how to build a company’s culture. I also love learning, so this blog is a way for me to share those learnings with you!