In a heartfelt testament to the power of mindfulness, self-compassion, and personal transformation, Patrick Priestner, the CEO of CanadaOne Auto, shares his remarkable journey in his debut book, Notes for the Children: A Journey on Life’s Broken Road. This memoir offers readers a profound glimpse into the life of one of Canada’s successful entrepreneurs, detailing the experiences and insights that have shaped his path.
The Genesis of ‘Notes for the Children’
Patrick Priestner’s journey began in the bustling streets of Calgary, Canada, where, as a teenager, he embarked on a career in car sales. By the age of 18, he had become a leading Chrysler car salesperson in the country, a remarkable achievement that set the stage for his future success. By 26, Patrick had acquired his first dealership, and over the next three decades, he would go on to found and develop two of Canada’s successful automotive businesses, building a billion-dollar empire in CanadaOne Auto.
Despite his professional accomplishments, Patrick’s personal journey has been equally significant. His memoir, Notes for the Children, weaves together stories of personal triumph, love, loss, and the lessons learned along the way. The book is a reflection on life’s challenges and the importance of making small changes to heal, inspire, and connect with others.
A Father’s Gift
The inspiration for Notes for the Children came during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that offered Patrick the opportunity to reflect on his life and compile thousands of pages of notes he had accumulated over the years. These notes, primarily about the emotional challenges faced in retail and the ways he overcame them, were influenced by his study of Buddhism and mindfulness. Encouraged by his wife, Diana, Patrick decided to organize these reflections into a book intended for his children and grandchildren.
The result is a memoir that not only chronicles Patrick’s professional achievements but also delves into his personal experiences as a son, brother, husband, and father. Through his engaging storytelling, Patrick transports readers from the streets of his childhood neighborhoods to the bustling car dealership where he made his first sale. He reveals the challenges and joys of his relationships with family members and loved ones, illustrating how music and Buddhist philosophy helped him cope with life’s struggles with compassion and forgiveness.
Mental Health Advocate
One of the inspiring aspects of Notes for the Children is Patrick’s commitment to philanthropy. All proceeds from the book are donated to Well-being Canada, an initiative founded and supported by Patrick and his wife, Diana. Well-being Canada is dedicated to empowering Canadians with positive mental health tools and resources, reflecting Patrick’s deep commitment to supporting mental health initiatives.
The book’s dedication to this cause underscores the importance of giving back and supporting the well-being of others. By sharing his personal journey and the lessons he has learned, Patrick hopes to inspire readers to prioritize their own mental health and well-being, encouraging them to make small changes that can lead to significant improvements in their lives.
Patrick Priestner: A Visionary Leader
Patrick Priestner’s career is a testament to his visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. After starting his career in car sales as a teenager, he quickly rose through the ranks, achieving national recognition for his sales achievements. His success in the automotive industry continued as he acquired his first dealership at 26 and went on to build two of Canada’s successful automotive businesses.
Throughout his career, Patrick has received numerous accolades, including the CADA Innovator Laureate award in 2008 and the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Prairies award in 2015. His leadership and dedication to excellence have not only propelled his professional success but also inspired those around him.
A Book for Everyone
Notes for the Children is a book that offers valuable insights for readers from all walks of life. Whether you are an entrepreneur, corporate leader, or someone seeking personal development, Patrick’s reflections on life and its many lessons provide a roadmap for navigating life’s challenges with mindfulness and self-compassion.
The memoir’s emphasis on making small changes to achieve significant impact is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-reflection and personal growth. Patrick’s engaging and inspiring storytelling encourages readers to consider how they can apply these insights to their own lives, helping them find solace and joy amidst life’s challenges.
Visit the Website
To learn more about Notes for the Children, visit http://www.notesforthechildren.com. The website offers information about the book, including excerpts and details on how the proceeds are making a difference in communities across Canada. Readers can also find links to purchase the book in paperback or audiobook formats and access the podcast where Patrick reads from the text of his memoir.
Published By: Aize Perez