A tribute to the quiet strength, grace, and unwavering optimism of Greek grandmothers.

There’s something timeless about the strength of a Greek grandmother—our Yiayia. They carry generations on their shoulders with grace, cook feasts without blinking, and smile through even the most challenging moments. In this heartfelt video, I share a glimpse into my relationship with Yiayia Eleni—one of the most positive humans I’ve ever known.

Despite life's difficulties—war, immigration, loss, and aging—her mindset remains steady: "Don't complain, and don't make excuses." That phrase shaped me more than any motivational seminar or self-help book ever could.

Her joy doesn’t come from external success or worldly accomplishments. It comes from faith, family, and a relentless focus on what she can control—her attitude.

“Her joy doesn’t come from external success or worldly accomplishments. It comes from faith, family, and a relentless focus on what she can control—her attitude.”

— GEORGE STROUMBOULIS

There’s something timeless about the strength of a Greek grandmother—our **Yiayia**.

Your Mindset is Your Power

Yiayia didn’t need a vision board or an influencer to tell her that positive thinking could shape your day—she lived it. Every morning she chose gratitude, no matter how little she had.

Lesson: A strong mind will take you further than any resource ever will.

🌿 “Even if you only have bread, make it taste like a feast with a smile.” —Yiayia Eleni

Quiet Strength is the Loudest

She never raised her voice, yet her presence filled the room. Her ability to navigate hardship without bitterness was a masterclass in dignity. Greek women of her generation were the anchors of families, rebuilding from the ground up.

Lesson: You don’t have to be loud to be powerful—let your actions and energy speak for you.

Serve Without Expecting

Yiayia never kept score. She gave everything—her time, her energy, her food—without expecting anything in return. And in doing so, she created abundance in everyone’s life around her.

Lesson: True leadership comes from service, not status.