This week was rather busy with a bunch of meetings with clients, as well as an in-person trip to see a client we’ve had for about six months. The automotive market is in an interesting spot, which has required us to do a significant amount of R&D as well as doubling down on the way we approach customer service.
That’s how I envision the future of our space. Heavy automation and AI with an extreme focus on customer service, which I believe will continue to be a lost art as companies like ours try to get away from the human element.
Speaking of the human element, this was a week of deep discussions with my business partners as well as a small party celebrating 100 car dealers at Fountain Forward. It was a wonderful group of people in a beautiful venue where many conversations were had. We had great food, great drinks, and shared many hugs and handshakes. I appreciate everyone that came to celebrate with us.
Now…
This week was very heavy for me. I could feel it in the room much of the week. I can feel it as I’m writing. As much as this feeling is scary, it means there is growth occurring.
I’m confident in my decision to have important discussions this week because I approached them from “center”, something I’ve worked diligently on the last few years.
All of the aforementioned discussions carry a lot of emotions. I used to think the leaders I watched didn’t feel the same types of emotions.
That’s not the case.
They feel ALL the things, but they understand the feelings and act as love (centered), and therefore get the best chance at an ideal outcome.
That leads me to something I mentioned multiple times in the past.
I love your future self and capabilities more than I love you today. I really mean that. That’s what inspires me to have these difficult conversations with close friends and team members.
This is the same type of conversation(s) that my closest mentors/friends have had with me… Which aided my growth and will continue to aid my growth.
I look forward to these discussions.
I woke up on Sunday feeling the weight of these discussions… Still.
Today was the same.
I’m walking softly today as I get ready for a travel week.
I am appreciative of the conversations and approaching all conversations with extra humility. Not because I’m afraid, but because I’m consciously aware of the energy around me.
Speak softly and carry a big stick.
Let’s get it.
With love,
– SJ
PS: Many thanks to Casey and Kyle for making the trip to Texas for the party. You guys are wonderful and appreciated.