IanChristie.net

I would like to draw your attention to a separate site I have put-up. IanChristie.net is intended for my corporate / B2B clients in the areas of:

* Search & Recruitment
* HR Consulting
* Board Reviews
* Coaching
* and Career Services.

Please visit.

Fast Company Vancouver Company of Friends Discussion

I had fun the week of May 31st leading an online discussion for the Vancouver Company of Friends cell. The topic was employee / employer engagement. To follow the discussion, go here.

Males Cooking

I love to cook! In fact, I love to entertain friends and family. Most of the meals in our house are the work of my hands. Cassoulet. Home made pizzas. Risottos. Soups. Creative sauces. Lamb - bring it on! I even try and catch Jamie Oliver now and then.

Among my married male friends almost all are the primary food providers. I knew there was larger social trend going on here, but also assumed that some self-selection had occurred. Friends get attracted to the same things, etc. And, I live in Vancouver, which is a food mad city.

Then, I met someone the other day - an old tennis buddy from 20 years back. We were catching up and comparing notes while our kids did their gymnastics class, and lo and behold, same thing for him. He cooks. His friends cook. The wives and girlfriends, do not.

What gives?

Have we been suckered into this somehow?

Do we city dwelling, office working men instinctively need to do something with our hands?

Is it a deep need to show off our providing skills?

I know...it is the closest thing we can get to wielding a sword. Name a guy who doesn't want to handle a sword.

Or, is it art? (Side note: all of the men I know enjoy the production of cooking. The day in day out of making kids lunches, or sticking something fast on the table isn't as motivating. Give us half an opportunity to cook a leg of lamb and were there!! ).

I suspect that it is a bit of all of the above.

Now, excuse me, while I go sharpen my knives.