Sandra Keeley

Tell us a little bit about your life/career/workpath? I started my career working on the Institutional Fixed Income Trading Floor for a bank-owned brokerage firm. When I left, I was working on the Fixed Income Capital Markets Arbitrage Desk. After going back to school and studying Journalism – I started writing for Bloomberg News, a financial newswire, in Toronto.

After a five year stint in Chicago and two children, our family is back in Toronto and I keep busy with my company Keeley Writes and Edits Inc., providing freelance writing and copy editing.  


What is your passion in life?
Do you have to have just one passion? My family is everything to me. Nothing comes before my children and my husband. If I had to give a laundry list of other things I am passionate about… I would start with writing, reading, cooking, gardening, volunteering and raising money for hospitals and schools, laughing with friends, fitness, online shopping (just kidding) and generally being happy.

 
What do you like to do to relax?
Curling-up and reading a good book in a hammock at our cottage can put me into a catatonic state. I find yoga an amazing way to settle my mind and body. Also, canoeing is another activity which I find so calming and grounding. Debriefing about the day with my husband over a glass of wine in the kitchen while I am cooking dinner and the kiddies are playing is heavenly to me – definitely my favourite way to relax.

What is your favourite story of rebellion?
Rebellion like teenager-stuff? Sorry, but that box is shut tight!  
 
That being said, some of my favourite rebels include Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, Elizabeth I, Catherine the Great and of course, Harriet Tubman.


Tell us about a relationship that means a lot to you
I cherish the relationship I have with my children. They are such amazing little people who are so interesting and have the most wonderful little spirits. They are open and honest and cuddly and smart. I am unbelievably privileged to witness their journey.  


What do you do to release your pent up stress?
When I am stressed-out the first thing I do is hit the gym. A difficult vigorous class with loud music really makes me feel renewed and better able to deal with the challenges ahead.


What helps you feel more energetic?
Any project that I can get excited about gives me energy. I love the potential of a new task and brainstorming ideas. That is invigorating. Also, sleep and water are good too!