As an educator at our Houston Highland Village store, Laura loves to inspire others and to be inspired by those around her. Recently, she became so inspired by the flow of inspiration around her that she had to share her experience. Read on and join her circle of inspiration.

The life I love is challenging, uncertain, and sometimes outright tiring. After experiencing lululemon’s entrepreneurial-focused culture as a part-time educator at the San Antonio store, I went on to a career and a job where I felt unhappy and stuck. To maintain balance in my life, I surrounded myself with healthy, inspiring, like-minded people who all seemed to have two desires in common: to make a difference in the world; and to live a happy life.

My goal became to create my life around those two intentions. The inspiration to achieve those goals took many forms:

• an inspiring and empowering yoga teacher training at a local studio
• my friend, Jenny, having the strength to change career and find happiness
• the passion for life and love of lululemon Key Leader, Emily Jacobs
• support from friends and family
• my yoga practice

The journey towards my goal led to me leaving a well-paying, status quo job for a risky, less-mainstream one. The result? I am financially stable. I love the work I do. I am inspired by the people I work with on a daily basis. I am simply a happy human being. I am also fortunate enough to have the opportunity to inspire others around me as a friend, yoga teacher and lululemon educator. The flow of inspiration starts with just one brave act.

top 10 ways to inspire others in your community

• share ideas generously with anyone who will listen; without fear
• follow your passion
• face the unknown with curiosity and excitement
• drop your labels and open yourself up to constant change and growth (labeling yourself limits your potential)
• allow others to share in your greatness and allow others to (gasp!) copy you; without judgment.
• don’t base your wants on society’s wants, or the status quo
• let others’ ideas be different from yours, and let that difference inspire you
• forget your ego and take responsibility for your circumstances
• set goals and accomplish them
• enlist the help and support of others

Inspiration can be a lot like the butterfly effect; a tiny action from you can set off a chain reaction. Hopefully all our little butterflies are sending out positive ripples through the universe.

want more?

• Share your goals to actively seek and give inspiration.
• Find an inspirational ambassador in your area.

When Richard Roberts and Phillip Sharp won a Nobel Prize in 1993 for their work with split genes, Laura Appleton thought she was on to a winning formula. Her jean-splitting lunge is definitely prize worthy (although she still hasn't received her Nobel Prize for it) and her BHAGs  keep her achieving awesome things every day.

meet laura

want more?

• Harness the power of BHAGs.
• Draw inspiration from those around you.

Our first Digital Storyteller, Elissa, is officially on maternity leave now, appropriately, right before Mother's Day. In her goodbye blog post, she reflects on her pregnancy so far and how the advice given to marathon runners is also apt for the 40 week experience.

pregnancy: the other marathon

I have never considered myself a runner and now  I can play the pregnancy card and dodge offers to meet for a run without batting an eye. I'm an active person - my mom modeled that for me -  but my idea of jogging is winding country roads listening to Simon & Garfunkel.

As lululemon's Digital Storyteller, I have had the amazing opportunity to research running and share the stories of many athletes.  I covered our ambassadors who ran the Boston Marathon and I put together some posts to help you all get ready for the races you've been training for since the new year. Thanks to inspiring people like Jenn Thiel and Kathleen Pugh running has started to look more appealing.

As I head off on maternity leave, I'm realising that my experience of pregnancy seemingly runs parallel to the experience of training for a marathon - or, conversely, how all you marathon runners out there may be better prepared for pregnancy than I ever was.

pace yourself

You can do amazing things, 42 kilometres or 40 weeks, but you're not invincible. Give yourself some grace and pace yourself for the long road ahead, whether it's paved and lined with water stations or bumpy (literally) and full of surprises.

eat well

Everything you reach for impacts your body's ability to perform so choose wisely. (Oh, and don't be afraid to break the rules sometimes...just make sure you're not cracking into the cupcakes before your morning coffee break. You've been warned.)

listen to your body

Our bodies are miraculous; capable of doing things we can't even imagine. They often know exactly what they need. The trick is slowing down enough to listen to what they're saying and then obeying.

do yoga

It's as perfect a complement to rigorous marathon training as it is to nurturing a little life. Stretching has saved my body from many perils in the past and has been especially important while preparing for motherhood.

drink water

You know that line from the manifesto that talks about how water flushes toxins from your body and keeps your brain sharp? It's true. Training for a marathon highlights the importance of staying hydrated and when you're pregnant, your brain needs all the help it can get to stay sharp.

Thank you Elissa, for all your love and compassion (and the hard work that accompanied them). As you approach the finish line of this 'race', we wish you bucketsful of luck and happiness for what lies ahead. Happy Mother's Day!

want more?

Get more of Elissa's story. She never applied to work here. Read the blog.

Meet all her lovely co-workers. Learn their dance moves.

Read our manifesto for more of life's little lessons. 

Treat your mom like a princess. Make her a delicious brunch.

Meet Alexis! Her smile is one of the first things you see if you visit the Store Support Centre - so take advantage of this ice breaker!

what is something unique or surprising about you?

People are going to laugh when I say this, but I would consider myself an introvert. I am a die-hard bookworm and nothing appeals to me more than taking an afternoon to learn about a subject I am curious about – it could be anything from political history to horticulture. I have a very random and voracious appetite for knowledge. And don’t even get me started about how much I adore online search engines!

what is one of your biggest passions?

Music. To me it is the most expressive, emotive, and joyful thing in the world. Nothing beats a good concert with close friends or a long drive with a killer album.

a goal you've achieved that you're proud of?

I am proud of transitioning from the last industry I worked in to where I am today. Prior to being at lululemon, I worked managing a very high volume restaurant in downtown Vancouver. I loved the pace of the work, the quirky and entertaining people I met and worked with, and the challenges I faced everyday – not to mention, the pay was great. But I didn’t love the hours or the lack of security I felt in my role. Switching industries is a daunting challenge – you wonder if you will be any good or if you are making the right decision. In the end, however, with risks come big rewards – and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.

what do you want to be remembered for?

I want to be remembered as someone who is kind and genuine, and who knows how to laugh. Laughing is important.

how does your role elevate lululemon?

Well first of all, I feel a little bit funny talking about “my” role because our department really operates as a single unit. We are a tight little squad, us facilities ladies! We do everything from shipping to building repairs to office moves to administrative duties. We elevate the business by facilitating all of the functional components at the Store Support Centre - if the office runs like clockwork, we have made the work environment better for everyone so they can focus on our stores. We also are the first impression of the SSC and take being warm and friendly face of lululemon very seriously…because we are very serious people. Riiiiigght.

what is the scariest thing you've ever done? Are you glad you did it?

The scariest thing I’ve done is stand near the edge of the cliff at the top of the Chief hike in Squamish. I don’t mind heights – I’ve been skydiving a few times – but for some reason being near the edge of big drops gives me the creeps. I know, I’m a sissy.

what is your favourite way to sweat?

My NEW favorite way to sweat is the Dailey Method. I have always loved running but have had problems with my IT band for the last couple of years. Dailey Method does wonders for toning and stretching your muscles, and gives fabulous results without being hard on your joints. Try it – I have never been a dancer (hard to believe, I know, considering my evident grace) but one class and I was hooked. [Editor's note: Like the sound of Dailey Method? Learn more about it here]

Each Monday we introduce people from all over the company to you. Who do you want to meet next?

Lesia's gonna shake things up, one email at a time!

what is your favourite way to sweat?

Oh, that’s easy, yoga and running. I am really loving hot yoga right now especially. I love the good sweat you get from hot yoga. I always feel so much better after a class, cleansed, relaxed and alive! I used to run a lot as well and I’m working towards running again, I just have to get my iPod updated with some good tunes and hit the pavement.

Lesia yoga-ing at the beach recently

what gets you up in the morning?

My two and a half year old daughter Taylor! I’m convinced that child is part rooster! She’s up early and ready to party! Sometimes we do a little yoga in the morning (tree pose and downward dog are her faves) and sometimes it’s all about cuddles on the couch while we watch Yo Gabba Gabba (and I caffeinate!).

The best alarm clock ever.

what is the best place you've travelled to?

I’ve been really fortunate over the past four years to have lived in London, England and Santa Monica, California. While living in London especially, my husband and I took full advantage of the opportunity to explore Europe while we were there – Barcelona, Spain for the long weekend? Yes, please! I really love London for so many reasons from the architecture and history to the fashion and culture, that city is so alive! But California stole my heart! There is something about those endless summer nights, the laid back vibe and the smell of Banana Boat sun block in the air! I love SoCal and I can’t get over it.

Lesia and her family!

what do you love about lululemon?

What I love about lululemon is hard to put into words. It’s more of a feeling really. I’m sure you’ve felt it. It’s that vibe you get when you walk into a lululemon store, take an in-store yoga class or get in on a conversation on Facebook, it’s the feeling of being a part of a like-minded, inspiring community.

how does your role elevate lululemon?

My role elevates lululemon because it allows me the incredible opportunity to share this amazing brand with the online universe. If you can’t get to one of our stores we can still keep you in the loop (and inspired) via our email newsletters and our website. I see the Email Specialist role as a huge opportunity to deliver this great brand and all things luon straight to your inbox! (If you’re reading this and you don’t get our weekly email newsletter you’re missing out! Sign up here for our online shopping emails and I’ll make sure you’re kept up-to-date on the latest and greatest at lululemon.com!)

Interested in possibilities with lululemon? Check out our careers page here.

Our freshest face this week is Erin, our new Public Relations Specialist. As a PR Specialist, Erin will be communicating from lululemon to the world! Read on to get to know her a little better.

Erin enjoying a nice sea breeze in Australia

what is one of your biggest passions?

I am passionate about many things but one of the things I am most passionate about is giving back to the community. I think it’s so important to give back and help others using the skills you have been blessed to develop. For the past four years, I have been volunteering with the Starlight Children’s Foundation, a non-profit children’s organization dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and I would encourage everyone to find an organization they are passionate about and dedicate some of their time to helping them in any capacity. You won’t regret it!

Can you spot Erin in the crowd?

what's your favourite way to sweat?

My favourite way to sweat is running. There is nothing better than the high you get after a really strong run. It helps that Vancouver is one of the best places in the world to run, thanks to our beautiful mountains and the fabulous seawall. I have run a number of half-marathons and one of my biggest fitness goals is to run a full marathon in under four hours before July 3, 2012.

what is the best place you've travelled?

The best place I’ve travelled to is definitely Australia. I spent four months travelling, working and having the best time of my life in the country. I can’t pick a single place there because it’s all so fantastic! I even had the privilege of working at the lululemon store in Melbourne as an educator.

coolest thing about being a public relations specialist?

The coolest thing about being a PR Specialist is that I get to share everything about lululemon, our functional clothing, our amazing people and our unique culture, with media from around the world. This role provides me with the opportunity to experience firsthand how much other people are passionate about us and gives me an incredible sense of pride to be a member of the lululemon family.

what is the scariest thing you've ever done? are you glad you did it?

The scariest thing I have ever done is decide to travel alone internationally. There is no question in my mind it was the best thing I have ever done. I spent four months travelling throughout Australia and a month cruising around Thailand and every second was absolutely unbelievable! I met the most incredible people, saw beautiful places and learned so much about myself.

We are incredibly excited to have Erin on the team! As a guest or fan of our products and culture you can look forwards to experiencing the innovation and passion she will bring to how lululemon speaks to you! Investigate your own future possibilities on the lululemon careers page.

how my role elevates lululemon?

I help attract and retain amazing people to lululemon every day. From exposing lululemon's freshest faces on Fridays to having an inspirational phone conversation about our newest would-be colleague, I contribute to magnetizing our future leaders and innovators every day.

something unique or surprising about me?

I collect anthologies, collections and dictionaries etc., of quotations. I have been collecting quotations since I was 16 and struggle to find the space for them in my Gastown apartment. I gather inspiration, advice, wisdom, and of course humour from our greatest recorded thinkers.

what gets me up in the morning ?

This guy, with tail wagging and tongue out!

the most beautiful place I’ve ever been?

When my best friend Maura up and moved to Bermuda I was originally a bit put out. But two fabulous trips to visit her later I have never been more convinced of paradise. Bermuda is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in the world & has a cultural history to match. Although I will be happy to have Maura back in Vancouver, I’m hoping to squeeze one more visit in before she comes home.

a goal I’ve achieved that I’m proud of?

My goal of the year was most definitely scoring my role as the lululemon athletica Attraction Ninja. Combining my creative abilities with my lust for a good joke, I wowed my interviewers with a circa late 80s marketing spoof. My only failure was my inability to execute more than 50% of the campaign before uncontrollable laughter set in - I blame my current manager who lost her composure at least two slides before I did.

why I love working at lululemon?

At lululemon I have the opportunity to celebrate my strengths, follow my goals, and most fantastically, exist as I am. Unlike many friends I know who lead a TGIF lifestyle I enjoy the privilege of anticipating my Mondays. At lululemon you don’t sludge through a 40-hour work week to make your living - you exist, create and develop for the intrinsic joy you feel as a result of your contributions to the whole as well as your own growth and development.

my biggest passion?

Whenever I see a flat green field or an open expanding trail I think of riding. I have experienced nothing more elevating than galloping across an open meadow – I think it has something to do with the complete joy radiating from the animal beneath you. Although I am currently on a lifestyle -induced hiatus (city life) from regular interaction with the beloved four-legged masterpieces, they will always be in my heart.

what do I want to be remembered for?

The best quotation anthology of all time. I’m not even joking. I’m thinking of doing a little coffee table number filled with tidbits of inspiration, joy & and wisdom. Personal goal: to avoid creating a toilet reader.

If you feel passionate about developing yourself and elevating the world you might want to consider aligning your talents and your livelihood. Live your Monday to Fridays to have fun, exist and develop and not just to survive until the weekend. Find out if your skill sets and career path align with any of our current possibilities on the lululemon careers page.

p.s. - I tweet career opportunities and daily inspirations (quotations). Check me out on twitter: @rebeccaapeel.

Michelle skiing up Mount Hemlock.

New to the team, Michelle will be ‘liaising’ between the Store Support Centre here in Vancouver and our merchandise planners Down Under! When our winter product hits the floor in the stores in Vancouver, Australia is just rolling into summer. It’s essential to plan the merchandise so the right product hits the floor at the right time, since nobody wants to rock around in a Da’Bomber jacket in 40 degree heat! Find out some more about Michelle and what it takes to be an Australian Liaison at lululemon athletica.

a goal you've achieved that you're proud of?

I completed the Victoria Marathon! Prior to finishing the race - I had my doubts it was possible for me to run 42km. My goal was to just make it across the finish line. Throughout the entire run it was a roller coaster of emotions. I met a woman who compared her first marathon to giving birth (something I have not experienced). I was truly inspired to be sharing the road with elite athletes and a wide range of runners - I pushed myself harder than I ever had before and that last km of the run was completely exhilarating. Crossing the finish line with my cousin was a very proud moment. Chris was beside me every mile of the race and I couldn't have done it without him.

what is one of your biggest passions?

Michelle and her boyfriend Mark at a wedding in Mexico.

Spending time with my boyfriend, Mark - we inspire and support each other every day. It makes me happy to be sharing the adventure of life with him and knowing that we will be sharing our lives and growing old (making the most of our Carlsberg years!!) together. I am also passionate about my friends & family. Who better than your loved ones to keep you focused on what is most important in life? - "It doesn't matter where you go; it's who's beside you that counts".

I appreciate every moment and the opportunity to experience life and love through the fresh eyes of my niece and nephew, they are my constant reminder to slow down and enjoy the little things in life.

what is your favourite way to sweat?

Early morning runs along the seawall are my favourite. It is the best way to remind myself of this amazing city (Vancouver) that we are so very lucky to call home! Any chance to enjoy the outdoors - snowshoeing & skiing in the winter, running, going for a ride on my cruiser pedal bike or conquering the Grind are what keep me going in the summer - this year stand up paddling is on my "to do" list!

Michelle and Mark posing post sweat on a tropical hike.

how does your role elevate lululemon?

I am very excited to take ownership of my new role of Australia Liaison. Not only am I a new addition to lululemon but my role is brand new as well! A big part of this position will be to keep the Australian merchant team in the loop on all the exciting development that is happening at the Store Support Centre here in Vancouver. I will be the eyes and ears for the AUS team, enabling them to elevate and expand their business in our growing market of Australia while I learn more about the challenges that they are faced with and working as a team to make the most of their business.

Michelle has been a most welcomed addition to the Store Support Centre. Her love for sweating combined with her passion for athletics and goal setting has made her a perfect fit (similar to our Groove Pants). If you think you would be a great fit find out if your career goals and professional background match up with any of our current possibilities on the lululemon careers page!

Susan relaxing on the patio.

why lululemon?

When I came across the job posting for the role of Compensation Manager at lululemon I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to apply; a chance to work in an entrepreneurial organization, with values similar to my own built on leading an athletic lifestyle, personal growth, and balance. Through the interview process, I was amazed by the investment that lululemon makes in its people offering what I believe are amazing career and personal development training/opportunities. Everyone here is truly committed to helping me achieve my goals! Oh, and did I also mention the added bonus of being able to wear luon to work every day? I find I am much more creative and focused when I am dressed in luon!

Susan prepping for a bike ride...

how does your role elevate lululemon?

As the Compensation Manager, my role is a pivotal part of lululemon’s people resources strategy. In particular, I work with our functions/businesses to create compensation programs that help lululemon attract and retain the top employee talent necessary to execute our business strategy. My role touches everything “pay related” from compensation philosophy development to incentive plan design for both our stores and our Store Support Centre – a chance to have a real impact on the organization.

coolest thing about working with the people resources team?

Working with the people resources team is truly a gift. It is an opportunity to work and sweat with other amazing people who have the collective goal of helping one another achieve their own career and personal goals. Everyone is a team player committed to helping the business grow.

Susan sweating with her bike team!

what is something unique or surprising about you?

I think most people would be surprised to know that I have taken flying trapeze lessons! My sister introduced me to the world of circus arts, and I really enjoyed the thrill of flying on the trapeze (and secretly pretending that I was part of Cirque de Soleil!). I was amazed by the amount of strength, balance and coordination the trapeze takes – one of the best workouts around. I would highly recommend that everyone try flying on a trapeze at least once in their life.

a goal you’ve achieved that you’re proud of?

Susan completing the run portion of an ironman.

I’m proud of finishing three ironman distances triathlons (which involves a 2.8km swim, a 180km bike and a 42km run). About five years ago, I remember thinking that it would be impossible for me to complete a race of this distance, but with a lot of dedication and the support of friends and family, I have been able to complete three ironman races. The process of training for and completing these races has helped me find a new level of strength and belief in myself and has introduced me to an amazing set of like-minded people -- many of whom are now good friends!

what is the best place you've travelled to?

I travelled to Australia and New Zealand when I was a teenager and recall the beauty of the area. I would love to have the opportunity to travel there again whether for pleasure or for work. My better half, Stephen, spent a year in Melbourne for work and we have often talked about visiting their together and furthering some of the friendships he made. Oh, and an added bonus, Australia has a ton of amazing triathlons which we would love to complete (Geelong half Ironman, Ironman Western Australia, and just a short trip away – Ironman New Zealand).

Susan and Stephen cross country skiing!

Interested in playing a vital role in lululemon athletica’s people strategy? From sea to sky Vancouver, B.C. is attracting athletes and entrepreneurs from all over the globe. If you're passionate about numbers and data analysis; and want to utilize your compensation analyst background to assist in designing variable pay programs check out your future possibilities.

This Friday meet our newest tech support specialist. Craig plays an essential role in supporting our stores by ensuring all of their technologies, computers, blackberries, printers, etc. are working properly. Find out more about his role and how he is elevating lululemon!

Craig with his dog, Keela.

how does your role elevate lululemon?

Being in a tech support role, we have the opportunity to speak with many many store educators and Store Support Centre employees on a daily basis. By making sure issues are solved and/or escalated in a timely manner, it elevates the ability of our team members to do their jobs more efficiently. The fantastic relationship between the business and IT support at lululemon helps to elevate the company as a whole.

why lululemon?

We are a local, grassroots company that cares about the communities in which their stores are located. Most recently I came from a Western Canadian grocery company that had its start in New Westminster, and have always enjoyed the sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with working local. lululemon really gets it when it comes to staying true to core values and goals. We are also a growing company with opportunity abound, and for those motivated individuals (it’s not hard to get, and stay motivated in such a great company) the world is your oyster.

Craig and his staff hockey team with his previous employer.

coolest thing about being a tech support specialist?

Probably has to be the daily interaction with so many different people, and the fact that everyone accepts and realizes the importance of having an educated and motivated IT department. Also, can’t forget the toys. Being in this role you get to experience a lot of the cutting edge technology out there, as well as test and implement new technologies to help the support process, and ultimately the business become more efficient.

what is your favorite way to sweat?

I play hockey year round, as well as soccer whenever I get the opportunity. The combination of physical exertion mixed with mental competition is a great way to relieve stress and stay in shape. I’ve played hockey since I was a kid, so I guess I’ll embarrass myself a little bit and include an old hockey picture of me as a wee laddie.

what are you most passionate about?

Definitely friends and family – without them, what is life? Right? Totally cheesy, but it’s the truth.

Craig surfing with his passion...

Like the sound of Craig’s life? –inspired, passionate, athlete who loves is career!
If you’re a technology guru who loves helping and interacting with others check out your future possibilities with lululemon on the lululemon careers page.

View some of Craig's favourite lululemon gear:

• Essential Long Sleeve
• Pacific Beach Hoodie
• Smash Pant
• Wave Short

Max on a weekend excursion up to Whistler

what is a goal you’ve achieved that you’re proud of?

In my previous career I was a graphic designer and got a taste of the garment biz at one of my many jobs. When it was time to move on, I knew that I wanted to stay in this business and lululemon was the only company aligned with my lifestyle, values and goals. Through sheer persistence and determination I managed to get an interview, but there was nothing here for me. I then met with Chip... again...nothing. Discouraged, I reluctantly went back to design work. Almost a year passed and I realized that I needed to make something happen fast. So at 30 years old, I took a part-time educator position at Oakridge mall. I shared my head office goals with everyone, and within 6 weeks was hired as the Trims and Notions Developer. Seeing a path for myself within the company, I set my next goal to become a Sourcing Manager. Again, I put it out there, wrote it in my goals and worked my butt off to get both trained in the business and IN business (by doing my MBA... which was a massive goal in itself). Three years later, I achieved my goal and was offered the position of Sourcing Operations Manager for Accessories.

Max possibly making an inspirational speech about achieving goals…

what is your favourite way to sweat?

I'm a bike nut! Mainly I'm a roadie guy who likes to dress up in bright coloured spandex and go really really fast. Lately though I've been playing a lot of bike polo (look it up!). Apart from fitness, my bike is my main mode of transport and takes me wherever I need to go. When I'm not on my bike, you can find me doing the occasional yoga class or cursing at Rob during our twice weekly circuit training class.

Max considering a donut mid bike race!

where would you love to go?

I am completely infatuated with Sweden. It's liberal, progressive and beautiful. Plus it’s a major cultural hub churning out amazing art, music and fashion (all things I love). Watch out Stockholm... I'm coming!

Max on a previous adventure to Costa Rica !

why do you love working at lululemon athletica?

I love the concept of setting goals. Everything of note that I have ever achieved in my life was due to setting a goal and going for it. I feel completely supported by my coworkers and management and am given the freedom to be an entrepreneur in my role. I am free to make mistakes and am encouraged to learn from them when I actually do mess up. I get to travel, work with inspiring people, take on interesting new projects and be surrounded by hundreds of beautiful women!

how does your role elevate lululemon?

In my new role, I will be elevating lululemon by sourcing best-in-the-world accessories suppliers and aligning them with our quality and vision. These suppliers will be able to provide all of our accessories product needs all while working towards sustainability in their business practices. One of my main goals will be to streamline our internal process flows to reduce both physical and operational waste and create an environment where accessories sets the bar for sustainability and efficiency within lululemon.

Check out our continually evolving and expanding set of possibilities on the lululemon careers page.

NYC educators busting out a yoga pose on Wall Street after our earnings call last month!

julie - eastern us training manager

why do you have the most amazing job?

I love my job because it’s people first, and then we see the financial results again and again. Travelling around talking to people about their goals and helping them feel comfortable and confident in their job gets me up every day. I also think our product ROCKS so that helps.

how has working at lululemon made a difference in your life?

I’m more self-aware then I have ever been because of the tools offered at lululemon (Brian Tracy, Landmark, goal setting). Self awareness brings peace of mind. Peace of mind allows me to let go of my worries and create a future based on what’s possible, not what happened. Thank you lululemon!

what is your big hairy audacious goal?

My big hairy audacious goal was to move to New York City – and I just made it happen! I simply shared it with everyone around me and when my dream job finally opened up, I got it. Just one of many goals I have achieved while working with lululemon. It’s not ‘work’ – it’s a community of people standing for you and your goals, so long as you’re committed by giving back and never accepting anything less than greatness in your life. Guess it’s time to set a new hairy audacious goal. Hmmm....

monique - store manager of union square nyc

how did you come to lululemon?

I had a career as a project manager in technology and was looking for a part time job so I could have social interactions with real live people - I loved yoga and the website and lululemon at the time was opening the first store on the East Coast of the USA!

why do you have the most amazing job?

lululemon attracts people - employees, athletes, loyal fans - who are committed to creating incredible lives. Sometimes they are aware of it, sometimes they aren't, but they find themselves drawn to our stores and our educators. They read our manifesto, wear our clothing, take classes at our stores, hang out with our team. They find themselves running marathons or enrolling in yoga teacher training. Sometimes they work for us. In small steps or large leaps they take on their lives, transform their relationships, set goals, and create new futures.

Every day is different. In the stores, we have to rise to each day's unique set of challenges. My intellectual side gets to analyze numbers. My creative side gets to dream up events and windows and rewards for my team. My passionate side gets to have meaningful conversations every day. For every side I have, it finds expression. What more could I ask for?

Each day in the stores is unique!

how has working at lululemon made a difference in your life?

I've made close friends with people I have worked with, become a yoga teacher, moved to a new city - and I discovered I've grown up. And yet I feel younger at heart than ever before. Younger, and lighter.  None of that would have happened without being inspired, challenged, and motivated daily by the people I work with. I have so many role models that I learn from every time I am in their presence. And I've never worked harder or had more fun at the same time.

what is your big hairy audacious goal?

I am a self-supporting artist!

cara - regional manager nyc

how did you come to lululemon?

I kept going into the Victoria, British Columbia store and was in awe of how cool the people were and I never wanted to leave, plus I was in love with my black stretchy pants that I would never take off. I began working part-time as an educator while completing my Master’s degree and then absolutely had to be a part of company as the culture totally resonated with who I am.

why do you have the most amazing job?

I get to wake up every single day and work with the most amazing people on the planet. They constantly inspire me, push my limits and truly stand for greatness. Moreover, I have had the opportunity to live and experience the coolest places in the US, Boston and now, NYC. I am still pinching myself that I live in NYC. Lastly, I love who I meet everyday in the store and in the community. It is so cool to hear about people’s goals and just get to know who comes into our store and how we can help them. Ultimately, I feel I make a difference everyday in someone’s life. What could be better than that?!

how has working at lululemon made a difference in your life?

I am a better person, a better daughter a better sister, a better friend, a better wife, and a better leader. Personal development and goal setting have demonstrated that anything is possible and that you can love every single second of your life.

Cara on a stroll in the Big Apple

what is your big hairy audacious goal?

I am the CEO of lululemon athletica.

Learning about these amazing ladies stories inspired me -- not only to plan my next vacation to NYC, but also to embrace the possibilities and open doors surrounding me. If you find yourself attracted to greatness don’t miss your dream job and explore some of the possibilities waiting for you on the lululemon careers page.

what gets me up in the morning?

What gets me up in the morning is knowing that I’m heading in to work with amazing people who are doing what they love. Everything I’m doing at lululemon contributes to getting me ready to achieve my goal of owning a leadership facility with my husband. It’s incredible to do work that contributes to my future each and every day.

why do I love working at lululemon?

I love working at lululemon because the environment is challenging and supportive. I know that I can try new things and if I fail the people around me will be there to give me feedback, support me in trying again and believe in me. I can take risks and innovate in a safe, fun environment.

I love my work as Head of Leadership Development because I get to work with people who are taking themselves on in a big way. I am honoured to learn from them and to contribute to them being greater than they thought they could be. One of my coaches told me to “teach what I want to learn most” and I am able to do that every day. I’m convinced I have the best job in the world!

how does my role in leadership development elevate lululemon?

My team and I are committed to people seeing how through choice they can be great in their lives. We create workshops and programs for people to develop in both their professional skill and their personal lives. We know that if people are achieving goals, taking care of themselves and are always developing, our business will flourish! When people are able to see that through taking personal responsibility they can create anything they want for their lives, they see that they have the power to change the world.

Do you love developing, coaching and inspiring others? Check out some of the upcoming possibilities in leadership development on our careers page.

Oh hi there, Rebekah!

what are your favourite things to do in your spare time?

I am just a big nerd
I love reading books and watching documentaries on all sorts of strange topics. The interpretations of historical events from ancient Egypt are fascinating.
I also enjoy playing video games. I love working together with friends to build armies or kill zombies!

who is your mentor / hero? why?

Hero: My brother Elijah. He has more passion in life than anyone else I have ever known. He has never let outside influences disrupt his dreams, beliefs or ambitions even when others did not believe in him.

Mentor: My former boss. He always saw greatness in me even when I struggled to see it myself. I owe so much of my initial growth to his time and attention. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn so much from someone who I respect and admire.

your favourite quote?

“Life has taught us that love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction.”

This quote resonates with me because I believe we can accomplish so much more together then we ever could attempting to imitate one another. Educating each other through advice and experience ensures our efforts toward greatness are not wasted.

I also heard something that I liked over the weekend:
“You're entirely bonkers. But I'll tell you a secret. All the best people are.”
-Alice in Wonderland

Rebekah in her snorkling gear

something silly or unique about you?

I used to dye my hair a different color every week! My best friend and I would try to think up crazy new combinations to test out on my hair. It would definitely be hit and miss!
I also have a parrot Cockatoo named Daisy Mae. She has been with me for 7 years and if all goes well she will be will be with me for 60 more!

One of her many hair colours

what drew you to lululemon? favourite part of your job so far?

The people! Everyone I have met at lululemon has had a special energy that feels so good to be around and be a part of. I feel that I learn from everyone I meet, and there is always something exciting to be a part of and create!

My favorite part of my job has been building up a new team to add to the awesomeness of the lululemon family. I am SO excited to see us get closer to our vision with every new member.

Rebekah will definitely be looking to add new awesome people to her already awesome US team! If you live in the Washington area and consider yourself to be quite awesome, check out the opportunities available at the new US DC... www.lululemon.com/possibilities

Welcome to the lululemon team Wynn!

what is something unique or surprising about you?

I completed the market mapping of Amsterdam for Starbucks on bicycle as part of a four month European assignment. I rode around Amsterdam for 5 days straight 10 to 12 hours per day. It was a great experience and a test of endurance.

Biking in Amsterdam

what is one of your biggest passions (outside of store development!)?

My wife, nieces and nephews and playing hockey. I married my high school grad date so we are like soul mates. She also puts up with my other passion – store development, which trust me requires a lot of understanding.

Wynn's wife, with their nieces and nephews

favourite place in the world?

Paris, France. There was so much history and the Louvre museum was awesome.

a goal you've achieved that you're proud of?

Completion of my first yoga class - a Bikram hot yoga class! I survived and am ready for another one. My goal is to now attend at least one hot yoga class per week.

what do you want to be remembered for?

Having fun and sharing what I love – development and being part of a great team.

If you want to be a part of the Wynn legacy in Store Development, keep an eye on the lululemon careers page!

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