Business Unboxed: Attitude of Gratitude

Attitude of Gratitude was established in 2019 by Mackenzie Jalalpoor. The opportunity presented itself to her after she took over for a local group fitness boot camp (AXFIT). They decided it would be best if she came up with her own name and logo. This is really what sparked the idea of creating her own business.

AOG is a lifestyle brand. Mackenzie offers keynote speeches to schools, sports teams and workplaces. She also sells apparel to spread the message of gratitude even further.

Her message is a universal one.

Gratitude is something I am extremely passionate about. Through my lived experiences, I help individuals to better understand what exactly gratitude is, how it can impact our lives, and most importantly HOW you can get started on your very own journey with gratitude. It is an essential tool that we can utilize as we continue to grow and navigate through our lives.

I had the opportunity to interview Mackenzie about her entrepreneurial journey. She also shared some tips for how you can start a gratitude practice of your own.

What was your motivation for starting a business?

Mackenzie Jalalpoor:
When I started out, I was teaching group fitness classes for people of all ages and fitness levels. This continued for four or five months and then I quickly started transitioning my business into a lifestyle brand. COVID prevented me from teaching my classes in person, however I did continue on to do some virtual workouts for a while.

Over time, I have transitioned away from teaching fitness classes and I’ve opened up into the public speaking space. I have spoken to many schools in the area, and have started branching out into the corporate world as well.

What is your mission?

Mackenzie:
My mission is to spread light to others by sharing perspective.

What are your plans for business growth? New products/services that clients can look out for?

Mackenzie:
My plan is to continue spreading my light to others. I will continue to sell my grateful gear (apparel) and hopefully be introducing a few new products soon. I also plan to continue with my Keynote speeches and hope to gain more traction in this area. I want everyone to live with an “attitude of gratitude.”

Whether it be a school class, sports team, or corporate workplace, I want to continue sharing my message with others!

What do your clients say about your business?

Mackenzie:
Many people provide me with very positive feedback. A lot of people love the clothing that I sell and I have received positive remarks from all of the speaking engagements I have done. They appreciate the authenticity of my message and the inspiration behind it.

Here are just a couple of the rave reviews that I have received from my keynotes speeches:

“A heartfelt thank you for your inspirational talk to our staff and students today. As the saying goes “if I can affect one person, it’s worth it!” Let me assure you, many people were affected! You have the gift of passion and the gift of connecting with people of different ages. It was a blessing for us to have you with us.”

“You have a gift and a special talent that shines and your passion allows others to really listen to your message. Your message is purposeful and meaningful and … It struck me to my core! It literally changed the course of my day! Not too often do you come across a passionate speaker with natural abilities. The best compliment I can give is that I want my own two children to hear your message. Thank you for doing what you do and for what you did for our staff and students. Let me assure you, your impact was immeasurable.”

Can you share some of your tips for developing a gratitude practice?

Mackenzie:
Gratitude is something we are all capable of. It doesn’t matter how young or old we are — we can all develop an attitude of gratitude. The only thing you need is yourself. It’s about taking a moment each day to reflect on everything you already have. We so often look for more and constantly seek more, when what we already have is enough. It doesn’t have to take up your whole day — it’s just about getting started.

Take 30 seconds in the morning when you are brushing your teeth or driving to work to think about three things you are grateful for. Or, maybe you do this at the dinner table with your family. Wherever you choose to decide to get started, keep it consistent. If you can make this a habit, it gets easier and you’ll start to notice more good around you. Gratitude is contagious — we just have to begin our journey.

You share a lot of great quotes on your social media. Could you share one of your favourite quotes and why it resonates with you and your business?

Mackenzie:
“Appreciate what you have before it turns into what you had.”

I always try to encourage people to live in the present moment, to appreciate the people, places and things in their lives. There is so much that happens in our daily lives that we take for granted. Don’t wait for something to happen to realize the abundance around you. Start seeking it out now!

What advice would you give to others who might be considering starting a business?

Mackenzie:
I would tell others to just go for it! You will learn a lot along the way, but everything is possible. You can look to others for help where needed, but if you have an idea or a passion, just get started. You’d be amazed how things can change and evolve. It’s an amazing process and feeling to be doing something that you love!

Where can our readers find you?

Mackenzie:
I’m on Instagram @aogwindsor. They can find my website at aogwindsor.com.