Melissa Khedar

Melissa Khedar is a life enrichment professional with more than two decades of experience in the field of senior care. A strategic thinker and innovative planner, Melissa excels at developing and shaping programs and services for the elderly within complex regulatory frameworks. Her most recent position was Corporate Director of Life Enrichment at Lifetimes Living Inc., where she created and implemented the signature program ‘Elevate’, a centralized culinary and life enrichment program based around a rotating monthly theme. She also created and oversaw the volunteer program at Lifetimes Living.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

My days are usually filled overseeing and supporting the operational needs of the life enrichment department. This includes connecting with staff and residents, audits, implementation of new policies and procedures and implementing best practices. I stay productive by taking regular opportunities throughout the day to connect with the reason behind the work – the clients/residents. These individuals support, mold and influence all aspects of service delivery.

How do you bring ideas to life?

There’s a lot of trial and error involved. Once I implement a new idea or a new program, I watch to see what works and what doesn’t; what the people under my care like about it and what they don’t. I then take that information and evaluate what can be improved and what should be left alone. I make a lot of little tweaks to things along the way, too. It’s about creating an environment that is based on the individual, creating opportunities for the individual to be part of its development and implementation. Nothing is impossible, it might just need some adaptation and creative thinking.

What’s one trend that excites you?

In recent years, much more attention has been paid to providing for the mental and emotional well-being of seniors. In decades past, a lot of focus was put on seeing to their physical needs but not much else. But lately, the importance of keeping their minds engaged has become more prominent, and I think it’s a very important development.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

I always make sure to return phone and text messages immediately. Emails, too. I find answering peoples’ questions or responding to their messages in a timely manner not only helps in keeping me on top of my duties but also shows respect for whoever happens to be contacting me. Whether you have the answer or not, it’s important to acknowledge the communication.

What advice would you give your younger self?

If I had access to a time machine and was able to go back a few decades and have a conversation with my younger self, I would say this: Have fun. Life is short and it’s important to find a balance between work and play. Take adventures, step out of your comfort zone and experience something new.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

Mayonnaise is a staple on any hamburger and hot dog. It needs to be one of the condiments they automatically bring along with the ketchup, mustard and relish.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Sing like no one is around or watching! The power of music is remarkable at any age. It can evoke memories, feelings or just allow you to let loose and have fun.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I exercise. Whenever life seems a bit overwhelming, I head to the gym. I find that prolonged physical activity helps to clear my head of distractions and re-focuses me on the business at hand.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I think listening to people-truly listening when they speak to me-has been the strategy that has served me best in my career over the years. Being present and engaged in conversations with my colleagues and clients has helped me in a great many ways, not the least of which is information retention. I’ve also been genuine. This helps to build trust and confidence in any relationship.

What is one failure in your career,  how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

Early in my career, I found that I was taking on too many tasks. I am an active supervisor and eager to accomplish tasks in a timely manner. I was always coming up with new ideas and projects for myself as well as taking on the regular duties of my role. I was just burning myself out. I have since learned that there are limitations to what can be accomplished in a single day.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

While I don’t have any specific business in mind, I will say that any would-be entrepreneur who has an idea that supports the psychosocial needs of older adults is on their way to success. It’s putting yourself in the other person’s shoes and figuring out what you would want in that particular situation.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

I would have to say the calendar application on my phone is the piece of software I rely upon the most. I use it constantly. It helps me keep tabs on where I’m supposed to be and who I’m supposed to meet.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

I absolutely loved The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce. A remarkable book that reminds us that behind the disease, there is a person who has lived a life of love, heartbreak, adventure, fears and ultimately celebrates everyday joys and human connection.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently watched Grace and Frankie. Loved the camaraderie between two unlikely friends and the series of adventures and mishaps they get themselves into.

Key learnings

• Don’t take on more tasks than you can manage. Pace yourself
• Be present and engaged in conversations with colleagues and clients.
• Love what you do. The rest will fall into place.