Before most of Montreal has poured its first coffee, Naimur Rahman is often already on the tarmac at Montréal–Trudeau International Airport, helping keep one of Canada’s busiest airports moving. The work demands resilience, adaptability, and the ability to perform in everything from summer heat to bitter winter mornings. Those same qualities have shaped the way he approaches life with his wife and daughter, finding purpose in family, community, and the everyday routines that make Montreal feel like home.
Away from the airport, Naimur embraces the city he loves. Whether he is spending weekends in Verdun, making homemade Montreal-style bagels, cheering on the Canadiens, or supporting his daughter’s competitive swimming, he believes the best moments are often the simplest ones. His appreciation for hard work, local traditions, and strong relationships reflects the values that have guided him throughout his life.
Working as part of the ground crew has taught Naimur to stay calm under pressure and focus on what can be controlled. Long shifts, unpredictable weather, and constantly changing schedules have reinforced the importance of preparation, teamwork, and consistency. Those lessons extend far beyond the airport and influence how he approaches challenges at home and in everyday life.
Naimur believes a meaningful life is built through everyday habits rather than extraordinary moments. He enjoys learning from the people around him, values the strength of community, and takes pride in doing ordinary things well. His story is a reminder that purpose is often found not in the spotlight but in showing up each day with dedication and care.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My day usually starts early. If I’m working a morning shift at Montréal–Trudeau Airport, I’m already getting ready before most people are awake. Working outside means every day is different. Weather changes, flights change, and you have to stay alert. I focus on doing one job well before moving on to the next, rather than thinking about everything at once.
When I get home, my attention shifts to my family. My daughter has swimming practice several days a week, so evenings often revolve around getting her where she needs to be. I try to stay present instead of carrying work home.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I don’t overcomplicate things. I usually start small and improve as I go. Whether it’s trying a new bagel recipe or learning pickleball, I like to test ideas instead of waiting for everything to be perfect. Small improvements over time usually lead to better results than waiting for the perfect moment.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I like seeing more people getting involved in community sports. Pickleball has brought people of all ages together, and it’s a reminder that staying active doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Preparing the night before. I lay out everything I need for work, especially during winter. It makes mornings less stressful and helps me start the day focused.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t rush through life trying to reach the next milestone. Some of the best memories come from ordinary days that don’t seem important at the time.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I think Montreal-style bagels should never be toasted if they’re fresh. If they’re made properly, they’re already exactly how they’re supposed to be.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Talk to people you wouldn’t normally meet. Working at the airport has introduced me to people from everywhere, and even short conversations can teach you something new.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I go for a walk, especially around Verdun or near the river if I have the time. Being outside helps me clear my head. Sometimes I leave my phone in my pocket and just pay attention to what’s around me.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Being dependable has opened more doors than trying to stand out. At the airport, people notice who can be counted on when the weather turns bad or the schedule changes unexpectedly. Consistency builds trust, and trust creates opportunities.
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 thought asking questions made me look inexperienced. Instead, it slowed my learning because I tried figuring everything out myself. Eventually, I realized experienced coworkers were happy to share what they knew. That changed how I approached every new challenge.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
I’d love to see neighborhood walking food tours led by residents instead of professional guides. Visitors would experience the city through real stories, family-run businesses, and places locals actually recommend.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Google Keep. I use it for grocery lists, reminders, and keeping track of family schedules. It’s simple, and that’s exactly why I like it.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
I enjoy The Happiness Lab podcast. It talks about everyday habits that influence how people think and feel. The ideas are practical, and they remind me that small changes often make the biggest difference.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently watched Somebody Feed Phil. I like that it’s about more than food. It’s really about people, culture, and how sharing a meal can connect strangers. It reminds me of why I enjoy exploring Montreal’s neighborhoods and trying local restaurants.
Key learnings
- Consistency and reliability often create more opportunities than trying to stand out.
- Small daily improvements are usually more valuable than waiting for perfect conditions.
- Everyday conversations with different people can broaden your perspective in unexpected ways.
- Staying connected to family, community, and simple routines helps create balance in a busy life.
- Taking pride in ordinary work and doing it well builds confidence over time.