Pure Wonder

Children embody a state of wonder that entrepreneurs can learn from.

They wake up each morning without a plan. They have no preconceptions. No judgments. No worries. A lack of expectations allow kids to naturally live in the moment. They get excited about the little things and cry over nothing. Their states of pure wonder is fascinating.

Now, fast forward 20 years. The world hardens us. We want to impress and make our mark, but life can feel exhausting and the need to make ends meet adds constant stress. Our experiences make us more intelligent, capable and aware of our surroundings, but they also limit our ability to feel pure wonder.

As you’re building a business, release from the daily grind by thinking like a child. Pretend you were born yesterday. Be silly once in awhile. Forget the agenda. Color outside the lines. Get weird to solve problems. Laugh at your mistakes. Play in your sandbox and have fun getting messy. Let a child-like sense of wonder shrink your ego to make room for what’s next. What you’re building matters and if your work allows you to feel pure wonder, be thankful and pass it on.

The Holiday Walk

We’ll keep the stories around here focused on entrepreneurship and community-driven economic development, but passionate work is fueled by personal experiences and those we share our lives with. Let’s give these reflections a little heart by sprinkling in some personal experiences and plenty of fun.

I’ll start by sharing an emotional moment I felt today. As our little family got cozy by the fire to finish a magical Christmas day, we enjoyed watching Soul. The ending reminded me that one of the greatest joys in life is the opportunity to infuse the very best of ourselves into those who follow our footsteps. I felt the gravity of such purpose and let my eyes water as I whispered a few loving words to my little startup that pays in love.

As we spend time celebrating the holiday season with family and friends, below is a seasonal cocktail to keep things interesting as well. Eggnog is a seasonal drink that’s too thick to drink by itself, but the trick is adding Diet 7up. Here’s a fun compliment to your next stroll around the neighborhood looking at holiday lights.

The Holiday Walk
  • Full Glass of Ice
  • 1/3 Captain Morgan Private Stock
  • 1/3 Eggnog
  • 1/3 Diet 7up
  • Stir, then add a dash of cinnamon