Featuring our ever-cheerful Treasurer, Bukola Abdul
When people think of investing wisely, they often picture numbers, spreadsheets, and financial strategies — all things our treasurer knows well. But as she reminds us, there’s another kind of investment that pays lifelong dividends: how we invest in our attitude.
Always smiling and quick with a kind word, she believes gratitude is the most powerful currency there is.
“How you think is one of the most important investments you can make,” she says. “Just like saving or budgeting, gratitude and optimism compound over time — they grow. When you train your mind to notice small, good things, you’re building emotional wealth.”
Her approach isn’t about pretending life is perfect. “Gratitude doesn’t erase tough moments,” she adds. “It just reminds you that even on the hardest days, something kind or hopeful still happened. Maybe a neighbour waved, or the sunset was beautiful. Those small things are like deposits that keep you steady.”
It’s an approach she lives by — one that blends practical wisdom with a generous spirit. Alongside her advice about smart financial decisions, she encourages small, daily “self-investments” that can shift your whole outlook.
“Try the Three Good Things habit,” she suggests. “Every night, write down three small positive moments from your day and one reason each mattered. It’s quick, free, and it changes how you see the world.”
That same energy has inspired ideas like a Community Gratitude Jar and Gratitude Poster, where neighbours can drop notes of thanks or small wins to be shared publicly.
“Gratitude grows when we share it,” she says. “When we notice and celebrate small kindnesses — a shovelled walkway, a borrowed tool, a shared laugh — it reminds us we’re part of something good.”
As she puts it, gratitude might just be the smartest investment a community can make.
“Happiness is contagious. When we appreciate each other, it spreads. It makes people want to help, connect, and belong. That’s the best kind of return on investment.”
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